Halloween season wouldn’t be complete without pumpkins, and there’s no event quite like Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns. This event is one of my family-friendly events with its immersive outdoor spaces transforming into glowing wonderlands filled with thousands of hand-carved and illuminated pumpkins. Families, couples, and Halloween fans of all ages come to marvel at the artistry, atmosphere, and festive fun.
MAGIC OF THE JACK O’LANTERNS NEW LOCATION
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns was previously located at the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area in South El Monte, California. Now, the event has a brand-new home at the South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes, running September 19 through November 2.
The new venue offers lush, scenic backdrops that make the illuminated pumpkins even more magical. Guests can stroll past larger-than-life displays, including glowing dragons, pirate ships, dinosaurs, and themed pop culture icons. Light shows synchronized to music, played every 30 minutes, add an extra layer of excitement.
The event also introduces an expanded Fun Zone featuring giant inflatables and slides, enhanced photo opportunities, and seasonal extras, including s’mores packages and 3-D Jack O’Lantern glasses. Food and drinks will be available throughout the night, making it easy to enjoy a festive evening.
PROS/CONS OF THE NEW LOCATION
I’m sure everyone is curious about the new location. Like any change, it comes with both pros and cons. Firstly, the terrain is quite hilly, starting before you enter and continuing throughout the grounds. Also, some sections are very dark, nearly pitch black. On the plus side, the larger space allows for more expansive pumpkin displays, and music is featured in nearly every area, enhancing the immersive experience for visitors.
My biggest concern with the new location is the loss of accessibility. Previously, the walk was along a flat, circular path that was easy for everyone to navigate. Now, with the hilly terrain and darker sections, it’s much more challenging for visitors with mobility needs.
According to the official website:
Accessibility: Magic of the Jack O’ Lanterns LA takes place within the South Coast Botanic Garden in areas with bumpy dirt pathways that are narrow or uneven in many places. It is therefore not recommended and likely not accessible for those who require mobility equipment or special assistance. If you have questions about other types of accessibility to the show, feel free to contact magic of the jack at help@magicofthejackolanterns.com
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