Jack O’Lantern Glow returns to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden for its third year, presented by Medpace.
The event transforms a half-mile stretch of the zoo into a trail of more than 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins, making it the largest illuminated pumpkin show in the Tri-state area. Displays are themed around Cincinnati landmarks, animals and fall favorites.



Event Dates & Times
The trail runs October 2 through 31. It’s closed Monday, October 5, 12 and 19.
Hours:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 5:30 to 9 p.m., with entry time slots from 6 to 8:45 p.m.
- Thursdays through Sundays: 5:30 to 10 p.m., with entry time slots from 6 to 9:45 p.m.
What to Expect
Jack O’Lantern Glow is family-friendly and built for all ages. Along with the pumpkin trail, guests get nighttime access to the Reptile House and Night Hunters exhibits, open until 9 p.m., plus seasonal food and drinks in Vine Street Village and photo ops along the way.



Highlights include:
- More than 6,000 hand-carved “forever” pumpkins made by local artists
- Themed sections along the trail that change each year
- Seasonal food and drinks, including pumpkin spice lattes, spiked cider and fall beer selections
- A gift shop stocked with glow-in-the-dark accessories and event apparel
Ticket Information
General Admission:
- Adults (13+): $15 to $25
- Children (ages 3 to 12): $10 to $20
- Children under 3: Free
- Zoo members save $3 to $5 per ticket
Other Ticket Options:
- The Glow Go Pass lets you skip the general admission line. [Can’t be verified: current Glow Go Pass price]
- The 4 for $44 Boo Bundle covers four admissions good on any night of the run, no date or time slot required.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance and are non-refundable.




