Fall is here, and it is now time to gather around bonfires, sip apple cider, and carve pumpkins. It’s also time to get ready for one of the best holidays of the year: Halloween. Of the many fun harvest festivals in Minnesota, there is one in particular that will help you do just that. Pumpkin Nights is a magical two-week pumpkin festival at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. It’ll get you excited about fall – and about Halloween.
Pumpkin Nights is a fun-filled festival that celebrates the best the fall season has to offer.
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Visitors are invited to walk through a path of intricately arranged jack-o’-lanterns. They might be formed into tropical palm trees…
Pumpkin Nights/Facebook
…or a fantasy-filled treasure chest!
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The simpler pumpkins are fun, too. Many are carved with silly faces, much like those you’ve created for your own front porch.
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Either way, you’re sure to be in awe of the carvers’ skills. You can even watch pumpkin carving artists at work.
Pumpkin Nights/Facebook
The pumpkin path is 1/2-mile long and can be walked as many times as you want. You’ll likely discover a delightful new carving with every pass. There are over 4,000 pumpkins on display!
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There are many other activities as well. A hay bale maze, face painting, and more await visitors. This is a family-friendly event, and kids are welcome.
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While there may be some spooky elements - fog machines, coffins - there are no jump scares or gory displays. This family-friendly event is great for kids.
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There will also be food vendors lined up to warm you up with hot chocolate, cider, and tasty fall snacks.
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If you love dressing up, you’ll be happy to know that costumes are encouraged! Feel free to show your costume creativity, but leave the toy weapons and other props at home.
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Pumpkin Nights runs Thursday through Sunday October 13 to October 29. Tickets are $16 for seniors and kids, and $20 for adults. Learn more about buying tickets here.
Pumpkin Nights/Facebook
Pumpkin Nights is held at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds at 1719 Como Avenue in St. Paul.
Pumpkin Nights/Facebook
Will you attend this pumpkin festival? Have you ever gone before? Share your story in the comments below!
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