Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns is the Botanic Garden’s after-dark Halloween walk. According to the organizer, the 2026 dates are October 7 to 11, 14 to 18 and 21 to 25, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., rain or shine. The route passes hundreds of hand-carved pumpkins arranged in themed displays; this year’s themes include Halloween movies, wildlife, Dia de los Muertos, Cubs history and nature-inspired art. Carvers work live along the way, and costumed performers roam the paths.

Tickets are timed and sold in advance. Per the organizer, off-peak advance prices are $24 for adults and $17 for children ages 3 to 12 ($20 and $13 for members), with children under 2 free; peak nights cost more. A $35 VIP All Access pass is good any night. Parking is $15 if bought in advance, $25 on the day, free for members and no charge for ride-share drop-off.

Food stands sell caramel apples, spiced nuts, apple cider donuts and cocktails for adults. Tripods and monopods are not allowed during the event. The whole walk takes about an hour at a relaxed pace, longer on a busy Saturday.

Plan your visit

The garden is at Lake Cook Road and Edens Expressway (I-94), with the entrance on the east side of the interchange. Metra’s Union Pacific North line stops at Braeside, about a mile’s walk on a path along the lagoons, and Pace bus 213 runs along Green Bay Road; most people drive. Buy parking with your ticket to save $10. Fridays and Saturdays sell out first and the paths get slow; Wednesday and Thursday nights and the last entry hour are calmer. Wear closed shoes for unlit gravel stretches, dress for a lakefront night in the 40s and leave the tripod at home.