What Is The Event?
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is a fun, family-friendly Halloween event in Southern California, set in the greater Los Angeles area. The main attraction is a trail lined with thousands of intricately hand-carved Jack O’Lanterns. Along the way, you’ll see carvings of iconic characters like Mario, Master Chief, Rocky, a few Marvel heroes, and my personal favorite, Don Vito Corleone. The trail features different themed areas, beginning with a striking display of giant dinosaur carvings at the entrance. As you continue, you’ll pass through sections dedicated to movies, video games, and musicians. Further along is a whimsical “snowy” area, complete with snowmen topped with Jack O’Lanterns and fake snow gently falling around you. The highlight, however, is the nautical-themed walk at the end, where the carvings are so detailed it’s hard to imagine how much effort went into each piece. My favorite carving of the night was a shark—it was so intricate that I couldn’t believe one person managed to create such detailed work.
Aside from the trail, there are a few additional activities, though not many. You’ll find a food truck area, and for those 21 and over, alcohol is available. You can also buy s’mores kits to roast over an open fire, and there’s a large play area for kids to burn off some energy. After the trail, you can visit the merchandise shop for souvenirs (at a very fair price) and take advantage of a few more photo opportunities.
Affordability
The event is reasonably priced, especially considering it’s great for families or a date night. Tickets start at just $24.99 per person, making it an affordable outing. The food trucks are on the pricier side, which is typical for events like this. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the alcohol servings—much better than the small, overpriced cups you often get at events. The s’mores, though, were a bit steep at $8 each. While it’s not a deal-breaker, paying that much for a single marshmallow, graham cracker, and piece of chocolate does make you think twice, especially since you could buy all the ingredients in bulk at home for about the same price.
What To Expect
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is not a haunted event. If you’re looking for jump scares or haunted houses, this isn’t the place—you’d be better off checking out the LA Haunted Hayride or the Queen Mary. This event is about showcasing art through pumpkins, not frightening people. It’s perfect for families with kids who love Halloween but aren’t fans of scary stuff. It’s also an excellent option for a unique date night, with its dimly lit, spooky atmosphere setting a fun, relaxed mood. It took us about two hours to walk the trail, roast some s’mores, and grab a drink. As long as you’re not rushing through, you’ll find the experience well worth the price.
Verdict
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is a one-of-a-kind experience. The intricate pumpkin carvings are a sight you have to see for yourself. The attention to detail is astounding, and the artistry on display is truly something special. With its reasonable ticket prices, it’s an excellent outing for families, Halloween-loving couples, or artists seeking inspiration. I highly recommend checking it out if you have the chance!
