Each fall, the Hudson Valley hosts one of the most exciting Halloween displays in the U.S. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze features over 7,000 glowing pumpkins, hand-carved and arranged into creative sculptures. It takes place at Van Cortlandt Manor, a historic site in Croton-on-Hudson, New York. Families, teens, and tourists visit to see the light-filled wonderland that mixes art, history, and spooky fun for all ages.
1. Over 7,000 Pumpkins Light Up the Night
This Halloween event isn’t just a row of jack-o’-lanterns. More than 7,000 pumpkins are carved and placed into large sculptures. These include dinosaurs, bridges, animals, and famous buildings. Many are carved from foam to last longer, but hundreds are real. The glowing scenes stretch across walkways, gardens, and tunnels. The display is carefully planned and takes weeks to set up before the event opens.
2. A Real Historic Estate Hosts the Blaze
The Blaze is held at Van Cortlandt Manor, a restored 1700s estate in Croton-on-Hudson, New York. The historic location adds to the magic. Guests walk through lantern-lit paths on old stone grounds, blending spooky lights with local history. The manor is managed by Historic Hudson Valley, a nonprofit that uses the Blaze to support educational programs and preserve the site year-round.
3. Carving Starts Months in Advance
Carving over 7,000 pumpkins takes serious work. A team of artists begins months before opening night. They use stencils, knives, drills, and even laser tools to create patterns with clean lines and glowing details. Many designs are reused yearly, while others are brand new. Foam pumpkins allow them to keep detailed carvings on display without risk of rotting during the long season.
4. Each Year Brings New Themes
The Blaze changes every year to keep things exciting. One season might have a pumpkin Statue of Liberty, and another may feature a glowing carousel or a moving pumpkin train. Returning visitors often look forward to the latest theme. Each new design takes time to plan, carve, and build. Even for locals, no two years ever feel exactly the same.
5. Open for Weeks Every Fall
The Blaze runs from late September through mid-November. It operates most nights with timed entry to avoid crowding. A full walk-through takes about an hour, depending on how long guests stop for photos. Tickets sell out fast, especially in October. The event is open to all ages, and pathways are designed to be wheelchair accessible and easy to follow.
6. It Brings Tourists and Boosts the Economy
Over 150,000 people attend each season, helping nearby towns through tourism. Hotels, restaurants, and shops benefit during the Halloween season. Local artists and volunteers also find work through the event. For many in the Hudson Valley, the Blaze has become a key part of fall and a major event that brings attention and income to the community.
7. It’s More Than Just Pumpkins
Music, lights, and sounds enhance the pumpkin scenes. Visitors walk through glowing tunnels, hear spooky music, and see flashing lights that match each display. The mix of design, sound, and light turns the walk into a full experience. There’s also a gift shop and snacks. The Blaze shows how one holiday event can grow into something truly unique and exciting.
