Experience The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular At Minnesota Zoo

Yes, we are still in September, at least for a couple more days. If you have been to any sort of retail big box store you would have thought that Halloween way tomorrow. But no, it's still a month away. That just means that there is plenty of time to get out and enjoy what the Fall season and Halloween has to offer.

OPENING TODAY

Starting today (Friday) the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley is getting in on the action with the opening of their annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular! This is such a fun event with thousands of pumpkins displayed throughout the grounds. These pumpkins are all so unique with different themes, carvings and designs. The spectacular is open through November 2.

New this year! This year’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular features an expanded, one-way walking route. It’s designed to give you more space and even better views of the pumpkins. Feel the gourd vibes as you stroll through thousands of glowing pumpkins. Whether it’s your first time or already one of your family’s favorite fall activities, you’ll be wowed by the woodsy trail.

This year's event is inspired by the What goes bump in the night!

TICKETS

Tickets are available now, and are only online. The cost range is from $23-30 for adults and $19-$25 for children/65+ adults. Plus $10 for parking, per car for non-members. Members receive $3 - $4 off general admission tickets. If you want to become a member of the Minnesota Zoo you can do that and get the discount right away. You have to use your tickets the day and time that you have reserved or a ticket exchange fee will apply when moving tickets to another available day/time.

ADULT DAYS (NO KIDS)

If you want to go with just adults and not have any kids around, that is available too. Those dates are tonight, September 26th and then again on Halloween night, October 31st. They probably figure that most kids will be out trick or treating that night, so no issues with that. The space for this option is also limited, so if you are interested in that, you need to gert your tickets as soon as possible so that you can reserve your spot.

REFRESHMENTS

While you are enjoying the trail of pumpkins, you can also enjoy some food and drinks.

Roasted turkey legs

• Walking tacos

• Kids’ meals

• Spirited drinks for adults

Got a sweet tooth? Don’t miss:

• Pumpkin spice donut bites

• Mummy apple wraps

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LOOK: How Halloween has changed in the past 100 years

Stacker compiled a list of ways that Halloween has changed over the last 100 years, from how we celebrate it on the day to the costumes we wear trick-or-treating. We’ve included events, inventions, and trends that changed the ways that Halloween was celebrated over time. Many of these traditions were phased out over time. But just like fake blood in a carpet, every bit of Halloween’s history left an impression we can see traces of today.

Gallery Credit: Brit McGinnis