Illustration of a sunny autumn lawn with pumpkins, hay bales, a small tent, a witch and costumed children under orange trees (Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular)

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Guests stroll along an expanded woodsy trail illuminated by more than 5,000 artistically carved, glowing pumpkins. Along the path, visitors can test their trivia knowledge by matching questions to pumpkin-carved answers. The event also features plaza experiences, photo opportunities, seasonal treats, and dance parties.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

General admission tickets range from $23–30 for adults and $19–$26 for children; children ages 0–2 are free and do not need tickets. Members receive $3–$4 off general admission tickets. Adult Night tickets are $45 per adult; members receive $5 off each ticket. Parking is $10 per car for non-members for general admission, and $10 per vehicle for non-Members on the October 31 Adult Night. A ticket change fee applies when exchanging tickets; the FAQ specifies $15 per transaction. Tickets are nonrefundable.

Hours

September 26–October 13: Sunday–Thursday 6:30–10 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 6:30 p.m.–midnight. MEA, October 14–17: 5:30 p.m.–midnight. October 18–November 1: Sunday–Thursday 5:30–11 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 5:30 p.m.–midnight. Adult Nights: September 25 and October 7, 5 p.m.–midnight; October 31, 6 p.m.–midnight.

Food & Drink

Seasonal food, snacks, sweets, and drinks are available to purchase, including fall treats, s’mores, hot chocolate, cider, and alcoholic beverages at select locations; vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available.

Parking

Parking is $10 per car for non-members. If a visitor paid for general admission parking and left their car, they can retain that same-day parking payment for the event and show it at the gate.

Accessibility

The trail is accessible to mobility assistive devices, but features varying terrain, elevation changes, and a considerable incline; standard and motorized mobility devices are rentable on a first-come basis at Guest Services.

Going?

Location

Minnesota Zoo · 13000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley, MN 55124 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (4/5)

Best For

Families and groups who enjoy seasonal lights and a leisurely walk

Vibe

Glowing and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your ticketed wristband time to allow for parking and check-in.
  • Wear comfortable footwear and dress for the weather, as the outdoor trail includes elevation changes and takes 40–50 minutes to walk.
  • Leave full-faced costume masks, weapons props, full-body inflatables, flash photography, and selfie sticks at home.

Special Events & Promotions

  • This year, the route is expanded, with new plaza experiences and trivia taking center stage along the trail.
  • Three 18+ Adult Nights are offered: September 25, October 7, and Halloween Night on October 31.
  • On September 25, adults can choose Oktoberfest at the Farm followed by the trail, or child-free general admission; October 7 offers a Trivia Mafia option or child-free general admission.
  • Members save $3–$4 on general admission tickets and $5 on each Adult Night ticket.

Links & Contact

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can visitors see zoo animals during the event?

Animals in Discovery Bay can be viewed until 8 p.m., but all other animal viewing areas and the Treetop Trail are closed.

What happens if it rains?

The event takes place rain or shine. In cases of severe inclement weather like high winds or heavy rain, the Zoo may cancel and contact ticket holders to reschedule or issue a refund.

Can outside food and beverages be brought in?

Outside food and drinks are not allowed, though guests are permitted to bring water and baby bottles.

Are costumes permitted?

Costumes are welcome, but guests must not wear full-faced masks, full-body inflatable costumes, or carry props that resemble weapons.

Can visitors take photos and videos?

Photos and videos are allowed as long as they do not block traffic, but flash photography, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.

Browse Halloween in Apple Valley

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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