Experience Jack O’Lantern Glow at the Cincinnati Zoo

Get ready for a new immersive event for October – Jack O’Lantern Glow at the Cincinnati Zoo!

Bask in the glow of more than 5,000 hand carved and decorated pumpkins, lighting up the night on a fall themed Zoo trail.

carved pumpkins lit up along a trail at the Cincinnati Zoo's "Jack O'Lantern Glow" event

Take a night time stroll along the winding half mile path that’s illuminated with 5,000 jack o’lanterns, stunning displays, and special effects that will make your autumn nights even brighter!

You’ll find thousands of carved pumpkins along the trail including Cincinnati-themed pumpkins, movie-inspired pumpkins, colorful Day of the Dead pumpkins, and more!

This family-friendly event, full of magical glowing pumpkins and dazzling “light up the night” displays, is open on select nights from October 3 through October 31, 2024 (see more details below).

a mummy and boo sign lit up as part of Jack O'Lantern Glow at the Cincinnati Zoo

Enjoy some tasty fall treats as you admire the pumpkins! The following snacks and drinks will be available for purchase in Vine Street Village:
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate
pumpkin emoji
Apple Cider Spritz
pumpkin emoji Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups
pumpkin emoji Pumpkin Spice Elephant Ears
pumpkin emoji Orange and Purple Cotton Candy
pumpkin emoji Pumpkin Beer
pumpkin emoji Caramel Apples

wolfman pumpkin carving along at trail at the Cincinnati Zoo's Jack O'Lantern Glow event

Is the entire zoo open during Jack O’Lantern Glow?
No, the Jack O’Lantern Glow trail and the entrance area (including food and seating areas) are the only parts of the Zoo that are open. All animal habitats (and some other areas) will close at normal Zoo hours.

Do I need a ticket?
Yes, you need a ticket specifically for this event. Tickets are available online only and you will need to choose your time slot as well. Children 3 and under are free. Ticket information can be found on the Zoo’s site / here.

What’s included with my ticket?
Admission to Jack O’Lantern Glow and parking are both included with your ticket.

Can I go to the Zoo during the day and stay for Jack O’Lantern Glow?
No, daytime Zoo tickets do not include the pumpkin glow. You must purchase separate tickets for this nighttime event.

When is Jack O’Lantern Glow?
2024 dates include: October 3-6, Oct. 11-13, and Oct. 18-31

Where is it?
Cincinnati Zoo, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45220

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About the Author
Bridgett Raffenberg
My name is Bridgett Raffenberg and I am the creator of 365Cincinnati. I've been uncovering and sharing all of the best things to do in Cincinnati since 2010. I enjoy exploring new spots, discovering local events, and meeting the people who call Cincinnati home!