Illustration of a fall festival scene (Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park

Experience Cary's unique Pumpkin Flotilla at Bond Park, where carved jack-o'-lanterns set sail across the lake at twilight. Enjoy live music and food trucks while waiting for the magical display. Pumpkins are also relit for a stationary viewing the following night.

More in Cary:

What to Expect

Carved pumpkins float on the lake at twilight.

Event Details

Duration

3 hours

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Town of Cary

Food & Drink

Food trucks available

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families, couples, and anyone looking for a unique autumn evening.

Vibe

Magical, whimsical, community-focused

Energy Level

Low to medium

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Medium

Location

Bond Park Boathouse
801 High House Road
Cary, NC
27513

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Parking: Parking is available at Bond Park.
  • Accessibility: Check specific facility pages for detailed accessibility information.
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Bring your pumpkin to the Boathouse between 4-6 PM the day before the event for a guaranteed spot on a float.
  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the lake edge, as popular spots fill up quickly.
  • Consider renting a boat between 4 PM and 6:15 PM for a unique perspective of the flotilla as it begins.
  • Pumpkins must be soccer ball-sized, weigh about eight pounds, and be carved with lids and gutted at home.
  • The pumpkins remain on the lake and are relit the following night for a stationary viewing experience.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Pumpkins are relit the following night for a stationary display.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the guidelines for the pumpkins?

Pumpkins should be approximately the size of a soccer ball, weighing about eight pounds after carving. They must be gutted and carved at home with lids intact. Artificial decorations are not permitted.

Can I get my pumpkin back after the event?

Unfortunately, pumpkins in the flotilla cannot be returned. Your contribution helps decorate the waterfront.

What activities are available while waiting for the flotilla?

While waiting for the sun to set, enjoy live music, food trucks, and boat rentals.

What time should I arrive?

Pumpkin drop-off is from 4-6 PM the day before the event. For the main event, arrive early to find a good viewing spot along the lake.

Is there a rain date?

Information regarding a rain date is not explicitly provided, but it's advisable to check the event website for updates.

Tags

family friendlypumpkin patchhalloween festivalcommunity eventfall festivaljack o lanternspumpkin carving

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 3, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team