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Frequently asked questions

What is Jack O' Lantern Glow?

Jack O’ Lantern Glow is an immersive walkthrough experience with thousands of hand-carved pumpkins and fall displays that light up through the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.  This event is family-friendly and great for all ages.

Where is Jack O'Lantern Glow?

Inside the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220

What is the estimated walking distance?

From start to finish is around 1/2 mile.  The whole experience will take an average of 35 to 45 minutes to see everything.

When does the trail open?

As soon as the sun goes down the jack o’lanterns are lit!  The first time slot each night is around 6:30pm, but may vary depending on weather and daylight.  We want to make sure that each visitor has the best experience while the jack o’lanterns are lit.

When does the trail close?

Guests who are inside by the time gates close still have access to the show.

Where can I park?

Parking is included with your Jack O’Lantern Glow ticket. Parking is located in the Zoo’s Vine Lot at 3427 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220.

How many jack o'lanterns are in the show?

We have over 6,000 jack o’lanterns that are all hand carved and decorated by our talented local artists.

Is it scary?

No.  Jack O’Lantern Glow is for everyone!  The themes, effects, and show is geared for all ages.  Have fun!  Timed tickets are required for guests aged 3 and older.

How much are tickets?

Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time of the week and which ticket type your select.

Adult Admission

Price Range: $15 – $25

Child Admission

Price Range: $10 – $20

Member Discounts

$3 – $5 off each general admission ticket

*Service fees and taxes are not included in above prices

How does timed tickets work?

Jack O’Lantern Glow timed tickets are available for purchase online only. All visitors, including members, must reserve a date and time specific ticket in advance.  Children under 3 are Free.  Tickets are good for one use at the specified date and timeslot on the ticket.

Will I still wait in line to get in?

Yes.  Your time slot for your ticket is when your line can start to enter Jack O’Lantern Glow.  This could be an extra 30-45 minutes to reach the entrance to the trail.

Can I take photos/videos inside?

YES!  Be ready for a world of selfies!  We want you to have fun and take as many as you want.  Remember not to impede other guests and no flash photography.

Do you offer refunds?

Tickets are non-refundable.  There are no refunds, cancellations or rescheduling. Due to capacity restrictions, we must adhere to the ticketing policies which were stated prior to purchase. This includes the terms and conditions acknowledgement that all sales are final and there are no revisions for credit, refund, rescheduling, exchange or cancellation.

What happens if it rains?

Rain or shine, the show will be open.  In the event of heavy rain, high winds, or other inclement weather, we may cancel the event.  Ticket holders will be contacted by the Zoo to reschedule for another operating date. We will make all announcements about the overall event schedule or closures on the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical website.

Will there be food and drink?

Yes! Dinner is available for purchase at Hops and Base Camp Café. Festive snacks and drinks are available at Dippin’ Dots and Jack O’Snacks in Vine Street Village.  Cincinnati Zoo members receive 20% off food purchases (some restrictions apply).

Will animal habitats be open?

Although the jack o’lanterns are the real stars of this event, Reptile House and Night Hunters will be open nightly until 9pm.

Is the entire zoo open?

No. Only a limited portion of the Zoo is open for Jack O’Lantern Glow.  Trail is one-way only.  Please adhere to all posted signs or barriers that block off some pathways as well as one-way paths.

Can I touch the displays?

For your safety, please do not touch any of the pumpkin or light displays. Stay on marked pathways and do not wander into planters or display areas.

Can I wear a costume to Jack O'Lantern Glow?

Jack O’Lantern Glow is an outdoor, rain or shine event, so please dress for the weather.  Feel free to dress in your best costume, but please leave full-faced costume masks at home.  For more costume guidelines, please check out the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden Costume Guide.