Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom
Guests explore a theme park filled with over 6,000 illuminated pumpkins, larger-than-life glowing sculptures, and more than 30 operating rides running day to night. Admission includes the original Jack O' Lantern Spectacular, a quarter-mile trail lined with over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins. Families can also enjoy trick-or-treating stations, a hay maze, live street magic, musical performances, and costume contests.
See more family-friendly fall activities near Louisville
The ORIGINAL Jack O' Lantern Stroll
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Jack's Lantern Trail
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Trick or Treat at the Track
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Boo at the Zoo Presented by Meijer
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Trick-or-Treat at the Ballpark
Louisville · 4 mi
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Day tickets start at $19.99 and include full access to both experiences; 2026 Season Passes start at $99.99 and include free, unlimited admission every night of the event. Group tickets for parties of 15 or more are available as low as $18.99. Parking is not included in admission.
Hours
Wednesdays and Thursdays, 5 to 9 PM; Fridays, 5 to 10 PM; Saturdays, 2 to 10 PM; Sundays, 4 to 9 PM. The trail opens at 6 PM.
Ages
All ages
Food & Drink
Special fall-themed food and drinks are available for purchase alongside park favorites like barbecue, warm cinnamon bread, giant pretzels, and funnel cakes.
Parking
Enter the Kentucky Exposition Center via Gate 1, 4 or 6. Parking costs $15 per car or $30 per bus at the gate and includes same-day in-and-out privileges; advance online parking is $13 for single entry and does not include in-and-out. 2026 Season Passholders park free all season, and parking is free for all guests on select days. Accessible parking spaces are in lots directly adjacent to the Exposition Center buildings, first-come, first-served, and require a valid accessible parking hang tag or license plate.
Accessibility
Paved, level, and well-lit pathways and trails accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, with rental wheelchairs and ECVs available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pets
Service animals accompanying designated owners are welcome, subject to ride restrictions. No other animals are permitted in the park.
Going?
Location
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children of all ages
Vibe
Whimsical, festive, and glowing
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Tips & Advice
- Dress in family-friendly costumes, but note that masks are only permitted for children under 12 years old and weapon-like items are banned.
- Download the official Kentucky Kingdom mobile app for GPS wayfinding, daily show schedules, ride wait times, and pumpkin sculpture maps.
- Advance parking can be purchased online for $13, compared to $15 at the gate.
Special Events & Promotions
- The event offers a daytime experience and Glow Nights after sundown; the trail opens at 6 PM.
- New for 2026, the original Jack O' Lantern Spectacular debuts at Kentucky Kingdom with the Planet Pumpkin: A Glo-bal Adventure theme and more than 1,000 additional illuminated pumpkins throughout the park.
- During one October visit, 2026 Silver and Gold Season Passholders can bring a friend for $19.99; 2026 Diamond Passholders can purchase an unlimited number of $19.99 tickets.
- Groups of 15 or more can get tickets as low as $18.99. All 2026 Passholders except Pre-K are eligible for dining, shopping, and photo discounts, plus free parking.
Links & Contact
Run by Passion for Pumpkins
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
What is the chaperone policy?
Guests 15 and under must be accompanied by a supervising adult at least 21 years old who presents a valid government-issued photo ID and remains in the park for the duration of the visit.
Is the Jack O' Lantern Spectacular included with admission?
Yes, admission to the Jack O' Lantern Spectacular trail is included with a Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom ticket or season pass at no extra charge.
What happens if it rains?
The event operates rain or shine, though some rides may close during inclement weather. The park's Sunshine Guarantee may apply if weather closes the majority of rides.
Are costumes permitted?
Yes, guests are encouraged to wear family-friendly costumes. Masks are restricted to children under 12, and weapons or items resembling weapons are strictly prohibited.
Are pets allowed inside the event?
Only service animals accompanying designated owners are permitted. Service animals cannot go on rides and must remain with a non-riding party member.
Browse Halloween in Louisville
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.