Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is back at South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes for 2026, a family-friendly, all-ages Halloween walk lit by more than 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins. It runs select nights from September 18 through November 1, and tickets are on sale now.
The mile-long walking trail turns the garden’s pathways into a glowing landscape of pumpkin artistry and larger-than-life scenes. New for 2026 are a whimsical circus, a Dia de los Muertos tribute, and an under-the-sea journey, plus a synchronized pumpkin light show that lights up the trail every 30 minutes. Towering inflatables, interactive activities, and photo opportunities fill out the rest of the walk.
“This year’s show features thousands of hand-carved pumpkins along a beautiful trail, with radiant light displays and immersive scenes at every turn,” said General Manager Norberto Urrea.
This is a family outing rather than a scare event. Guests can add 3D Jack O’Lantern Glasses that turn points of light into glowing pumpkin images, or a S’mores Package for the fire pits, and the Fun Zone has a pumpkin-shaped bounce pad and oversized slides. Food and beverages are available throughout.
For families who benefit from reduced sensory stimulation, a low-sensory night runs Sunday, September 27, with a modified experience.
Tickets start at $29.99 for adults and $24.99 for kids, including fees, on select nights. They are on sale now at magicofthejackolanterns.com. The event is presented by Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, which operates 26 attractions across 17 U.S. cities.
