La exhibición suele abrir entre las 17h y las 21h, lo mejor es visitarla cuando sea completamente de noche.

¡Reserva las entradas lo antes posible porque suelen agotarse!

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, New York transforms into a haven for autumnal festivities. One of the standout events is the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, a mesmerizing Halloween spectacle that draws visitors from near and far. Celebrating its status as the top-rated Halloween attraction for two decades, this family-friendly event features thousands of hand-carved jack o’lanterns illuminating historic grounds in a symphony of light, sound, and creativity. Held in the scenic Hudson Valley, it’s an immersive walk-through experience that’s bigger, brighter, and more enchanting than ever in 2025.

Event Highlights and What’s New

Wander through a half-mile path adorned with larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures, synchronized lighting, and an original soundtrack that brings the displays to life. Expect to encounter life-sized dinosaurs, a massive 24-foot spider web, a twinkling Pumpkin Planetarium, and a fully functional carousel—all crafted from intricately carved gourds. The event is self-paced, typically taking about 45 minutes to traverse the trail, but plan for up to 90 minutes to fully enjoy the on-site amenities.

For 2025, the Blaze introduces fresh thrills tailored to New York pride and whimsy. Spot iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or Empire State Building reimagined in pumpkin form. Stroll the new Pumpkin Promenade, where themed displays rotate weekly for repeat visitors. Dive into a circus-inspired big top adventure, or journey «over the rainbow» in a wickedly fun, emerald-hued storybook dreamscape inspired by classic tales. Don’t miss the Headless Horseman’s Hideaway, a spooky lounge with Legend of Sleepy Hollow vibes, cocktails, and surprise visits from the Horseman himself (all ages welcome, but 21+ for alcohol).

On-site, relax at the Gourd & Goblet Tavern for signature drinks, snacks, and games (best for ages 18+, with indoor restrooms). Grab fall treats at Café Blaze, and shop exclusive souvenirs at the Blaze Boo-tique. All proceeds benefit Historic Hudson Valley, a non-profit preserving the region’s heritage.

Dates, Location, and Tickets

The 2025 Blaze runs on select nights from September 12 to November 16. It’s hosted at Van Cortlandt Manor, an 18th-century estate at 525 South Riverside Avenue, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520—about 40 miles north of Manhattan in Westchester County.

Advance tickets are required, with no on-site sales. FLEX tickets start at $24 and allow entry any night without reservations, including a complimentary snack and drink from the courtyard café. Upgrade to FLEX PLUS for VIP access to the tavern and hideaway (limited availability). Members of Historic Hudson Valley and children 2 and under enter free. Purchase online at pumpkinblaze.org or hudsonvalley.org; prices vary by date, with peaks in October. No refunds, but timed tickets can be exchanged with a fee.

How to Get There from Manhattan

Reaching Van Cortlandt Manor from Manhattan is straightforward, whether by public transit or car.

By Train (Public Transport)

Take the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to Croton-Harmon station. Trains run every 20 minutes, with the journey lasting about 1 hour and 12 minutes. Fares range from $11 to $18 one-way. From the station, it’s a 13-minute walk (about a mile) to the manor, or grab a quick cab for around $10. Buy tickets at Grand Central kiosks, via the MTA TrainTime app, or onboard (with a surcharge).

By Car

Drive north via the Henry Hudson Parkway, transitioning to the Saw Mill River Parkway, then US-9 to Croton-on-Hudson—approximately 43 miles and 1 hour, depending on traffic. Use GPS for real-time routing. Free on-site parking is available, and you can arrive up to 30 minutes before your entry time. Note potential tolls on bridges or parkways.

No direct buses are highlighted, but apps like Moovit can help plan combined bus-train routes if needed.

Essential Info for Non-New Yorkers

If you’re visiting from out of town, the Blaze is an accessible slice of New York autumn magic, but preparation ensures a smooth trip. Book tickets early—weekends and October dates sell out fast. The event is rain or shine, so check forecasts and dress in layers for cool evenings (temperatures can dip into the 40s°F/4°C). Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven terrain, which includes brick paths and soft surfaces—it’s mostly wheelchair-accessible, with no stairs, and handicapped parking available.

Strollers are allowed (narrow paths may challenge wide models), but no pets except service animals. Photography is encouraged for personal use, sans tripods or drones. For extended stays, nearby hotels like Tarrytown House Estate offer packages with Blaze tickets. Explore the Hudson Valley’s charm with side trips to Sleepy Hollow for more Halloween lore. Arrive hydrated and ready for fun—it’s recommended for all ages, blending whimsy with mild spooks.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the 2025 Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze promises an unforgettable glow-up to your fall calendar. Secure your spot and let the pumpkins light the way!