Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns, featuring a display of artist-carved pumpkins at the Chicago Botanic Garden, returns for 10 nights in advance of Halloween. More than 1,000 hand-carved, real pumpkins lit with LED lights will light up the night and line the family-friendly outdoor paved path in a beautiful fall setting.

“Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns provides a unique opportunity to enjoy an evening at the Garden where pumpkins light the way,” said Jodi Zombolo, associate vice president, Visitor Events & Programs. “We look forward to welcoming visitors back this October to experience our annual fall tradition with friends and family.”

Along the path, there will be 80 glowing pumpkins, some as large as 150 pounds, that are intricately carved with themes including dinosaurs, mythological creatures, Día de los Muertos, and Illinois comedians. Artists for the New York-based company Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns spend 8 to 10 hours to illustrate and then 10 to 20 hours to paint and carve each large pumpkin. Adding to the festive fall feeling, the route will also include live carving demonstrations, costumed entertainers, and seasonal light fare and drinks for purchase.

This year’s event runs for 10 evenings from Wednesday, October 12, through Sunday, October 16, and Wednesday, October 19, through  Sunday, October 23. The Garden will close each day at 5 p.m. and reopen at 6 p.m. for ticket holders to this special event. Timed tickets can be purchased for entry between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Last entry is at 10 p.m., and the event ends at 10:30 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now, and interested attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets early to secure their preferred time. Visit chicagobotanic.org/halloween for more information and to purchase tickets. 

An image gallery is available for media download here.