Nighttime magic and mystery return to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium from October 2 through November 1 with the Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza, presented by Peoples.

A treasured tradition for families and guests across the region, the Extravaganza celebrates imagination, community, and the spirit of autumn. The Zoo’s artists continue to expand the possibilities of pumpkin carving, transforming more than 4,200 hand-carved pumpkins into breathtaking works of art.

This year’s new themes include Zoo Residents, Cryptids, Famous Athletes from Western Pennsylvania, One Hit Wonders, Animated Movies, the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame, Japan, the 1970s, and more. An optional area (easy for younger or faint-of-heart guests to avoid) will feature classic horror films, along with new Scary Skeleton movie scenes. For the crowd-pleasing, fabulous fall finale, the animated Living Wall will be choreographed to three songs.

Also new at this year’s Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza:

• On Monday and Tuesday nights, guests receive 10% off food and beverages and 20% off retail purchases.
• On Wednesdays, favorite characters will roam the Village for free photo ops: Princesses (October 7), Galactic Warriors (October 14), Wizards (October 21), and Witch Sisters (October 28).
• A series of 21+ add-on experiences brings not-so-frightful fun to the Garden Tent on Thursday nights. Guests can mix a magic potion with mixologist Noah Welter (October 8 & 22), enjoy comedy from Arcade Comedy Theater (October 15), or do the zombie shuffle at the Disco’s Un-dead Dance Party (October 29). Each add-on costs $25 in addition to general admission to the Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza.
• On Fridays from October 9–30, a seasonal Vendors Village will feature local artists and makers selling spooky-themed arts and crafts.

A spooky scavenger hunt is included with all visits to the event. Returning add-ons of excitement include live pumpkin carving, seasonal food and drinks, the Night Train and Carousel, pumpkin painting, pumpkin smashing, and Spooky Specs glasses. Animals will not be visible in their public habitats during evening hours, but the Zoo will offer everything else guests need to get their autumn on!