Great pumpkin trail: a complete visitor’s guide to this year’s event
The Great Pumpkin Trail, organized by the Fall Harvest Association, will take place from October 14 to October 31, 2023, across five locations in the Midwest: Springfield Botanical Gardens, Cedar Rapids Arboretum, Des Moines Sculpture Park, Omaha Riverfront, and Kansas City Urban Farm. This year’s event features over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins displayed along illuminated trails, with themes ranging from folklore to modern art. Visitors can also participate in workshops hosted by professional carvers like Sarah Thompson and James Rivera, known for their intricate designs showcased at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Tickets are available online, priced at (25 for adults and )15 for children under 12, with proceeds supporting local agricultural education programs.
In addition to the pumpkin displays, the event includes live music performances by regional artists such as The Harvest Quartet and Bluegrass Revival Band, scheduled nightly from 6 PM to 9 PM. Food vendors, including Midwest Harvest Co. and Pumpkin Spice Delights, will offer seasonal specialties like roasted pumpkin soup and spiced cider. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as parking is limited and shuttle services from designated lots operate from 4 PM to 11 PM. For accessibility, wheelchair-friendly paths are available at all locations, and ASL interpreters will be present during workshops on October 21 and 28.
Practical Information for Attendees
- Q: Are pets allowed on the Great Pumpkin Trail?
A: Pets are not permitted, except for service animals with proper identification. - Q: Can tickets be purchased at the event entrance?
A: Tickets must be purchased online in advance; no on-site sales will be available. - Q: Is photography allowed during the event?
A: Photography is permitted for personal use, but commercial photography requires prior approval from the Fall Harvest Association.
