Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
Celebrate the original Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, a Minnesota fall tradition for eight years at the Minnesota Zoo!
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular experience begin the moment you arrive at the Zoo. With an expanded route and new experiences on the plaza, there’s more space to explore – and even better views of thousands of glowing pumpkins. Stroll the woodsy trail surrounded by more than 5,000 spectacularly carved pumpkins and glowing displays. Whether it’s your first visit or a fall tradition, there’s something to discover around every turn.
This year, trivia takes center stage! Put your trivia skills to the test as you make your way along the trail. You’ll encounter trivia questions, and the pumpkins themselves are the answers – can you figure out which pumpkin is the right one? From questions kids will know to answers the adults will recognize, the pumpkin artists have plenty of tricks to keep everyone guessing.
There will also be three adult-only experiences for those looking for more treats without the tykes. The adult-only nights include:
· Sept. 25 – Oktoberfest at the Farm: Guests can start their evening at the Farm with miniature donkeys, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, horses, while enjoying German specialties, draft beverages and Polka music before heading to the trail.
· Oct. 7 – Trivia Mafia: In keeping with this year’s theme, Trivia Mafia will bring spooky trivia questions designed to stump even confident trivia players.
· Oct. 31 – Halloween Night: Guests can enjoy thousands of glowing jack-o-lanterns, festive drinks, a spooky-season atmosphere and more. Costumes are encouraged but not required.
Seasonal food and drinks \(including potions for the 21\+ crowd\) will also be available to enjoy before or after the trail, including Harvest Moon Hot Chocolate, Firelight Cider and the new Banshee’s Irish Spice bag, loaded with chicken, tots, peppers and onions tossed in five-spice with curry sauce. The new Ghostly Inferno Burger is also available for those looking for some haunted heat, topped with ghost pepper cheddar, raspberry serrano jam, potato strings and herb aioli. Classic foods will also be available to purchase, including hot dogs, cheese curds, pretzels and desserts.