Discover the Enchanting World of the Great Jack-O'-Lantern Blaze
Every year, thousands of visitors flock to experience the enthralling spectacle of the Great Jack-O'-Lantern Blaze, a celebration of creativity and autumnal warmth. Renowned as one of the premier Halloween events in the area, this festival draws crowds to its dual locations in the Hudson Valley and Long Island for an unforgettable adventure among intricately carved pumpkins.
Why Visit the Great Jack-O'-Lantern Blaze?
If you're looking for an exciting fall day trip or an unforgettable Halloween event, the Jack-O'-Lantern Blaze offers the perfect mix. Be amazed by over 7,000 lit pumpkins arranged in a variety of themed displays. Each carefully crafted pumpkin adds to the event’s vibrant ambiance, creating a surreal experience. From eerily elegant ghoul installations to themed sections featuring speakeasies, attendees are treated to an array of magical displays.
Timing of the Event
Plan your visit wisely to make the most out of the Great Jack-O'-Lantern Blaze. This year, the Hudson Valley experience begins on September 13 and runs through November 17 at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, Westchester County. Meanwhile, the Long Island Blaze takes place at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration, from October 4 to November 3. Tickets are essential and must be secured in advance, with adult prices initiating at $20.
Venues and Ease of Access
Hudson Valley
- Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 South Riverside Avenue, Croton-On-Hudson, NY.
- Directions: For those coming from Manhattan, take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Croton-Harmon station—a journey under an hour. From there, a swift five-minute cab or 20-minute walk will get you to the venue.
Long Island
- Location: Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage, Long Island.
- Directions: Travelers from Manhattan can hop on the LIRR’s Port Jefferson or Ronkonkoma lines and alight at Hicksville. A short 15-minute cab or bus ride will transport you directly to the venue.
Ticketing Information
For Long Island, adult tickets commence at $32, while children's tickets start at $10. Admission for the Hudson Valley starts at $32 per adult, with significant savings available for weekday visits after 8 pm. Tavern access inside the Blaze requires a separate charge. Make sure to secure your tickets in advance as the event typically sells out swiftly. Note that tickets are non-refundable but are transferable should your plans change.
Duration of Your Blaze Experience
Expect to tour the Blaze in about 90 minutes, though you may wish to linger longer to capture photos and videos of the striking displays. Remember to appreciate the installations beyond the lens as some scenes are best enjoyed in the moment.
Culinary Delights and Refreshments
Pumpkin-themed refreshments, autumnal snacks, and various beverages await attendees. Before embarking on your journey through the Blaze, enjoy an array of options including pumpkin beer, spiked hot cocoa, fresh apple ciders, delicious candy apples, and more, available in designated tents at the venue.
Immersive Experiences and Highlights
The Blaze is renowned for its variety of extraordinary installations crafted from pumpkins, including bridges, arches, ferris wheels, and even statues. Highlights at the Long Island location feature a ‘Hall of Fame’ pumpkin display celebrating famous figures associated with the area, such as Billy Joel and Joan Jett, and a towering lighthouse composed of pumpkins.
At Hudson Valley, new features include a formidable Kraken emerging from the Croton River and an exclusive VIP speakeasy inside an 18th-century inn. "The Gourd & Goblet Tavern" invites guests to enjoy themed snacks and beverages while participating in classic tavern games.
Immerse yourself in the creativity, fun, and fall spirit of the Great Jack-O'-Lantern Blaze, a uniquely captivating event perfect for family and friends. Whether visiting the Hudson Valley or Long Island locations, the Blaze promises an impressive spectacle that will light up your autumn nights.
