Fall in New York has its own kind of magic — golden leaves crunching underfoot, crisp evenings perfect for cozy sweaters, and that unmistakable scent of pumpkin spice in the air. But there’s one tradition that stands out from the rest: The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. What began as a modest display in the Hudson Valley has transformed into one of the most dazzling and beloved Halloween events in the Northeast.
Whether you’re a local, a Halloween enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the Blaze is a must-see celebration of light, artistry, and spooky-season joy.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze began in 2005 as a fundraiser for Historic Hudson Valley, a nonprofit that preserves and interprets the region’s rich heritage. What started with just a few hundred hand-carved pumpkins on the grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor has exploded into an annual spectacle, drawing over 100,000 visitors every fall.
Unlike haunted houses or jump-scare mazes, the Blaze focuses on creativity over creepiness. It celebrates the skill of master carvers, the wonder of light, and the whimsy of Halloween, making it perfect for all ages.
Its success has even inspired a sister event on Long Island, further expanding the Blaze’s glowing footprint across New York.
Imagine strolling through a dark, historic landscape illuminated by more than 7,000 glowing pumpkins. Some are simple jack-o’-lanterns, while others form intricate, massive installations: swirling carousels, towering dinosaurs, the Headless Horseman, and even a 25-foot tall Statue of Liberty — all made entirely of carved pumpkins.
Each section of the Blaze is uniquely themed and choreographed to a dramatic soundtrack, creating a fully immersive experience. The “Pumpkin Zee Bridge” pays homage to New York’s infrastructure, while the “Pumpkin Planetarium” dazzles with constellations made of gourds.
Every pumpkin is hand-carved by a team of local artists, and no two seasons are exactly alike. New installations are added annually, so even return visitors are in for something new.
The original and larger Blaze takes place at the 18th-century Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson. The historic backdrop gives this location a unique atmosphere, blending old-world charm with contemporary creativity.
Just an hour north of NYC, this site is accessible by car or train (Metro-North to Croton-Harmon Station), making it ideal for a fall weekend escape.
Newer but equally enchanting, the Long Island Blaze is held at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration. This 19th-century living history museum adds another layer of depth, as jack-o’-lanterns line rustic barns, colonial homes, and cobblestone paths.
Both venues offer the same immersive storytelling, jaw-dropping pumpkin displays, and a family-friendly environment.
One of the Blaze’s biggest strengths is its accessibility for all age groups. Unlike many Halloween events, the Blaze is designed to enchant rather than terrify. There are no actors in costume jumping out at guests — just beautifully carved pumpkins and a little spooky ambiance.
Parents love it for being kid-friendly (and stroller-friendly), while couples enjoy the romantic autumnal vibes. Even solo visitors will find themselves lost in the magic.
The walking paths are wide and accessible, and the event is fully wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. That means everyone can comfortably enjoy the lights, music, and artistry.
The Blaze is more than just pumpkins on display — it’s a full-scale production that takes months of planning and creativity.
A team of local artists, designers, and volunteers work tirelessly from late summer into fall, crafting and assembling the pumpkin sculptures. Some designs feature real pumpkins, while others use foam models to maintain structure throughout the season. All carvings are done by hand, many with detailed themes ranging from pop culture icons to historical tributes.
And it’s not just about visuals — the music and lighting are synchronized for each zone, creating a multisensory experience that’s both immersive and unforgettable.
The Blaze also maintains a strong commitment to sustainability, using energy-efficient LED lighting, composting old pumpkins, and minimizing waste.
If you’re planning to visit The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your night:
Tickets are timed-entry only and often sell out weeks in advance, especially for weekends. Book as early as possible to secure your preferred date and time.
This is an outdoor event, so check the forecast and dress accordingly. Layers, comfy shoes, and maybe even some Halloween flair are recommended.
Since tickets are timed, arriving late may result in shorter viewing windows or missed time slots.
Photos are encouraged, but flash can wash out the pumpkins and affect others’ experiences. Try night mode or slow shutter apps for the best results.
Make a day (or weekend) out of it:
The Blaze has become a social media darling — and it’s easy to see why. With thousands of glowing pumpkins forming everything from classic monsters to pop culture references, it’s a visual feast. Every corner is a potential Instagram backdrop, and the event even encourages hashtags like #PumpkinBlaze and #HistoricHudsonValley.
There are also Blaze-themed merch booths with hoodies, mugs, glow-in-the-dark souvenirs, and even pumpkin-spiced everything.
Beyond the pumpkins and fun, attending The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze supports a meaningful cause. Proceeds help Historic Hudson Valley, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving important historic sites, funding educational programs, and keeping the region’s stories alive.
Your ticket helps ensure that future generations can continue to experience both history and Halloween in unique, magical ways.
Each year, The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze grows bigger and better, with new installations, expanded accessibility, and enhanced visitor experiences. As demand increases, the team behind the Blaze continues to innovate while staying true to its roots — artistry, community, and pure pumpkin magic.
With talk of more locations and new themes, there’s no doubt this beloved fall festival will keep glowing for many autumns to come.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable fall experience that blends art, tradition, and seasonal spirit, The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze should be at the top of your list. Whether you visit the Hudson Valley or Long Island edition, you’re in for a night of wonder, light, and pumpkin-powered joy.
From kids marveling at pumpkin dragons to adults soaking in the craftsmanship and autumn atmosphere, the Blaze offers a little something for everyone — and it’s bound to become one of your favorite Halloween traditio
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