The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival
The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival returns for its 16th year, transforming Downtown Highwood into a fall wonderland. This family-friendly event boasts 2025 pumpkins, live music across three stages, a lively carnival, and a wide array of food and artisan vendors. Attendees can enjoy pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, and exciting costume contests for both kids and pets. Interactive installations and the iconic Pumpkin Fest skeletons add to the festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit autumn celebration.
What to Expect
Over 2025 pumpkins and interactive fall installations
Event Details
Duration
Multiple days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Highwood
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Celebrate Highwood
Food & Drink
Food and artisan vendors, full bars
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, halloween enthusiasts, community event lovers
Vibe
Festive, autumnal, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: Free parking locations are available. Shuttle bus service runs from Philip H. Sheridan Reserve Center. Reserved parking is by permit only. Passenger pick up & drop off available at designated locations.
- Accessibility: Handicap Drop Off and Limited Handicap Parking is located at the Highwood Library Parking Lot. Handicap Parking is also located off of Walker Avenue, just east of Waukegan near the intersection of Walker Ave. and Lakeview Ave. Parking by handicap permit only.
- Pets: Pet-friendly
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Thursday for the Community Night & Opening Carnival for unlimited ride specials.
- Utilize the free shuttle service from the Philip H. Sheridan Reserve Center to easily access the festival grounds and avoid parking hassles.
- Check the music schedule in advance to plan your visit around performances on one of the three stages.
- Leashed dogs are welcome, so bring your furry friends along to enjoy the festivities and participate in the pet costume contest.
- Explore the interactive installations and pumpkin displays throughout Downtown Highwood, which are available all month long.
Special Events & Promotions
- Community Night & Opening Carnival with unlimited ride specials
- Trick or Treating throughout festival grounds
- Pet Costume Contest
- Kids Costume Contest
- Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest
- Great Pumpkin Wall Lighting
- Interactive installations available all month long
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times for the festival?
The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival runs from October 2-5, 2025. Community Night and Opening Carnival is on October 1st. Hours vary by day, with the festival typically opening in the afternoon and running into the evening.
Is there an entry fee for the festival?
No, there is no entry fee to attend The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival. Many activities are free, though carnival rides, food, and vendor purchases will have associated costs.
Where is the festival located?
The festival is located throughout Downtown Highwood, with key areas including Highwood City Hall, Everts Park, and the Highwood Metra Station Parking Lot.
Are pets allowed at the festival?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome at the festival. There is also a dedicated Pet Costume Contest sponsored by The Dog Stop.
What are the parking and transportation options?
Parking is available at various locations with shuttle service from the Philip H. Sheridan Reserve Center. Public transportation via the Metra Union Pacific North Route is also a convenient option.
More Halloween Events Near Highwood
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.