Jack O’Lantern Spectacular Tickets

FAQS

How long is the 2023 Jack O'Lantern Spectacular?

The 2023 Jack O’Lantern Spectacular runs from Tuesday, October 3 to Tuesday, October 31. 

Gates open at 6:30 p.m. every day, though trail entry may be held until sunset. Gates close at 10:00 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The latest timed entry slot is 9:30 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Where is the Louisville Jack O'Lantern Spectacular?

The Jack O'Lantern Spectacular takes place at Iroquois Park in Louisville, Kentucky. The exact address is 1080 Amphitheater Rd, Louisville, KY 40214.

What is the theme of the 2023 Jack O'Lantern Spectacular?

The theme for 2023’s edition of the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular is “Wanderlust,” featuring the accompanying slogan “The World Is Your Pumpkin.” Merchandise displaying this year’s theme with a specialized logo can be found on the event’s webstore.

When does the trail open?

The trail opens when it’s dark enough for visitors to enjoy. The first timed entry slot each night is 6:30 p.m, but depending on weather and daylight hours, trail entry may begin between 6:50 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The delay is put in place to give visitors an ideal viewing experience of the illuminated jack o’lanterns.

What is the estimated walking distance?

The total walking distance from gate entry to exit is roughly one mile. The distance from the Iroquois Park Amphitheater entrance to the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular trail entrance is 1/3 of a mile, while the trail loop itself is 1/3 of a mile. The trail is estimated to take an average of 35 to 45 minutes to complete.

What is timed ticketing?

Timed ticket entry allows guests to enter the Iroquois Amphitheater at designated times within a 1-hour time slot. There is an exception to the 1-hour entry period for each night’s final time slot, which only lasts between 9:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, and 10:30 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. 

Depending on weather conditions and daylight hours, the initial 6:30 p.m. entry time for the Iroquois Amphitheater may be delayed until dusk to enter the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular trail.

Timed ticket entry slots will sell out in advance, and reservations will become available on September 1.

If I come with a timed ticket, will I still wait in line?

Yes, the time on your ticket is when your line begins to enter the Amphitheater. Please expect an additional 30-45 minutes to reach the trail entrance.

When does the trail close?

The Iroquois Park Amphitheater gate closes at 10:00 p.m. between Sundays and Thursdays, and 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Guests who are inside the Amphitheater at that time will still have access to the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular.

What accommodations are made for those in wheelchairs or scooters?

Guests requiring wheelchair assistance will have access to parking near the Amphitheater Box Office. A valid parking permit is required. For drop-offs near the Amphitheater entrance, a wheelchair ramp can be found behind the Amphitheater Box Office.

The 1/3-mile-long trail surface is composed of compacted, crushed limestone for easier mobility, but does feature several steep slopes.

Who carves the pumpkins?

The over-5,000 pumpkins used for the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular are provided by the event’s producer, Oxford, Massachusetts’ Passion for Pumpkins, and are hand-carved and decorated by local artists.

How long do the pumpkins last?

Intricate pumpkins are replaced every 3 to 6 days, depending on weather conditions.

Can I take photos and/or videos of the Spectacular?

Photos and video recordings are encouraged throughout the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular, though impeding traffic and flash photography are not permitted.

Are pets allowed on the trail?

Pets can not join on the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular trail, with the exception of service animals.