The McLaughlin Garden and Homestead is thrilled to announce the return of its signature fall event, the 12th Annual Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular. This beloved community celebration promises to unleash the titans and bring the dinosaurs back to life for visitors of all ages, helping to usher in the Halloween season in spectacular style with a prehistoric theme.
This year’s Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular promises a memorable evening for guests with over 300 intricately carved pumpkins, all set among vibrant lights and displays. The 2025 “Prehistoric” theme brings the wonder of dinosaurs to the magical paths in the McLaughlin Garden. The event is open for three nights: Thursday, October 16, Friday, October 17, and Saturday, October 18, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. each evening.
Outdoors, guests will stroll through the illuminated McLaughlin Garden, enjoying the electrifying atmosphere. Indoors, the historic barn will feature a photo booth with cut-outs featuring dinosaurs, where visitors can capture keepsake memories. After exploring the displays, attendees can warm up with a complimentary warm spiced apple juice while they share stories about their favorite pumpkins.
“We invite everyone to come share in this magical experience as our outdoor season comes to a close,” said McLaughlin Garden Horticulturist Corey Kotfila. “Our creative program committee and loyal volunteers have been hard at work planning for this event, and we hope you’ll join us for an enchanting evening.”
Community members are also invited to participate in a hands-on way by carving pumpkins to be featured in the displays. Fully gutted pumpkins will be available for carving at the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead on Tuesday, October 14, and Wednesday, October 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No registration is necessary, and all are welcome to join this festive tradition.
The Jack-O’-Lantern Spectacular is one of McLaughlin Garden and Homestead’s most anticipated events and serves as a major fundraiser. Proceeds help maintain the garden grounds and support year-round programming. The McLaughlin Garden and Homestead is committed to providing free and low-cost educational and cultural experiences in a beautiful, safe, and welcoming environment that fosters creativity and connections.
This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of our 2025 season sponsors, MaineHealth Stephens Hospital and Norway Savings Bank, and from our event sponsors, Oxford Federal Credit Union, Norman Hanson & Detroy, Oxford Plaza, Hebron Academy, and Ripley & Fletcher Ford.
Admission is $8 per person or two for $15. Children two and under are free. Payment is accepted at the entrance, and both cash and credit cards are accepted.
For more information, please visit the McLaughlin Garden events page at https://mclaughlingarden.org or call (207) 743-8820 to learn more about this event and other seasonal offerings at the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead.
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