Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns returns to Hudson Gardens Sept. 18–Nov. 1
The Hudson Gardens Halloween trail opens Friday, Sept. 18, and runs on select dates through Nov. 1, 2026.
The Villager ·
Denver’s enchanting Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns returns to The Hudson Gardens, opening on Friday, Sept. 18 and running on select dates through Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026. The family-friendly Halloween experience invites guests of all ages to explore a glowing outdoor trail filled with thousands of magnificent hand-carved pumpkins, larger-than-life displays, immersive lighting and plenty of fall magic.
This year’s illuminated journey takes guests through a dazzling collection of pumpkin art and imaginative scenes, where intricately carved jack o’ lanterns transform the gardens after dark. Visitors will encounter everything from a nautical seascape and pirate ship to dinosaurs, dragons and larger-than-life pumpkin creations.
The magic continues inside Enchanted Hollow, an expanded portion of the trail that takes guests beyond the pumpkins and into a spellbinding world of radiant light displays and whimsical fall scenes. Stretching an additional one-third of a mile, the path winds beneath twinkling treetops and through softly illuminated landscapes. Enchanted Hollow is included with admission.
Throughout the evening, the entire experience comes alive during a synchronized light show. Approximately every 30 minutes, illuminated jack o’ lanterns and displays dance along to music.
Guests can stop at s’mores stations, capture family photos among glowing pumpkin displays and enjoy seasonal food and beverages, including crafted cocktails, hot chocolate and cider alongside fall favorites such as smoked turkey legs, sausage on a stick, grilled corn, chicken tenders, fries, funnel cakes, kettle corn and churros.
The experience is designed for guests of all ages, combining Halloween atmosphere with artistry and entertainment without the scares of a traditional haunted attraction. Ticket prices vary based on date and availability. Flex admission, group tickets and other upgrades may be available. A full seasonal calendar is available at magicofthejackolanterns.com.
Print source: The Villager, Vol. 44 No. 43, Sept. 17, 2026, page 5. Issuu edition.