Seven Thousand Carved Pumpkins Light a Hudson Estate

The Blaze fills the grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor with more than seven thousand illuminated jack o lanterns, each one hand carved by a team of artists. A marked trail winds past lit scenes that range from a pumpkin planetarium to a working carousel built from gourds. Life sized dinosaurs, movie monsters, and storybook characters fill out the walk this season. The glowing gourds play against the 18th century manor and its riverside grounds.

You follow the marked trail on foot at your own pace, stopping wherever a scene catches you. The lit gourds read well in the dark, and a phone camera captures them fine. Families set an easy pace while kids run ahead to the next lit scene. Adults can add the Gourd and Goblet Tavern for a seated drink partway through. The whole route stays outdoors, and staff keep the entrance line moving.

Gates open in the evening, and this featured night runs Saturday, September 26, from 7 in the evening. All tickets are timed and sold online in advance, and Historic Hudson Valley members get free standard timed tickets. Arrive near your entry time and use the on site lot off South Riverside Avenue. The trail runs rain or shine, and warm layers with closed shoes help. It fits families and couples who want an outdoor night out rather than a haunted house scare.