Jack O’Lantern Glow
Jack O’Lantern Glow is an immersive walkthrough experience featuring more than 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins and fall displays along a half-mile trail. Visitors can wander through more than 20 themed areas with music, lighting, and special effects, or search for designated pumpkins during a scavenger hunt. While most zoo habitats are closed, guests can explore the Reptile House and Night Hunters, ride the carousel, and stop for themed food and drinks.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Adult admission $15–$25; child admission $10–$20. Prices vary by day and time of week. Members receive $3–$5 off each general admission ticket. The 4 for $44 Boo Bundle can be used any day during the event dates except October 5, 12, and 19, with no timeslot or date needed. Children under 3 are free. The carousel costs an additional $4 per person; members with rides packages can ride it free.
Hours
Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 5:30pm–9pm; first timeslot 6pm, last timeslot 8:45pm. Thursday–Sunday: 5:30pm–10pm; first timeslot 6pm, last timeslot 9:45pm.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Avondale
Food & Drink
Venues serve seasonal items including pumpkin spice hot chocolate, fall lattes, craft beer, adult cocktails in light-up souvenir skull cups, and themed savory dishes like Zombie Banh Mi and Franken’ Mac.
Parking
Parking is included with the Jack O’Lantern Glow ticket. Parking is in the Zoo’s Vine Lot at 3427 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220.
Accessibility
A limited number of manual and electric wheelchairs, as well as strollers, are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the Ticketing Window.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive no more than 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time slot.
- Parking is included with your admission ticket and is located in the Zoo’s Vine Lot at 3427 Vine St.
- Costumes are encouraged for all ages, but full-faced costume masks are not permitted.
Special Events & Promotions
- Zoo members receive $3–$5 off each general admission ticket; discounted tickets are available online.
- The 4 for $44 Boo Bundle can be used on any event day without a date or timeslot.
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 contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the pumpkins real?
No, all 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins are reusable 'forever pumpkins' carved by local artists so they do not rot during the month-long event.
Are the animal habitats open during the event?
Only a limited portion of the Zoo is open. Most animal habitats are closed, but the Reptile House and Night Hunters remain open.
Is the event scary?
No, the displays, themes, and effects are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
What happens if it rains?
The event is open rain or shine, but it may be canceled in instances of heavy rain, high winds, or severe weather, in which case ticket holders will be contacted to reschedule.
How long does it take to walk through the trail?
The one-way walking trail is approximately half a mile long and takes an average of 35 to 45 minutes to complete.
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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. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.