Walk through thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns at Jack O’ Lantern World! The popular Lake Zurich pumpkin attraction is opening its second Chicagoland location at the Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines in Lemont this weekend.
As dusk turns to darkness, families can walk a half-mile trail that will transport them to Jack O’ Lantern World. Thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns created by more than 50 artists make up 17 immersive and whimsical fall displays. Plus, you can even find giant pumpkins weighing more than 1,000 pounds!
The best part? The nighttime attraction is pure family fun and seasonal light displays; no jump scares or frights for the little ones.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase from local food trucks. Check the Jack O’ Lantern World website to find a schedule of food vendors.
Ready to get into the fall spirit this month? Here is what your family needs to know before you experience the autumnal magic of Jack O’ Lantern World.
Quick details about Jack O’ Lantern World
@chicagoparent Experience enchanting jack-o’-lantern displays at @TheJackOLanternWorld ♬ THIS IS HALLOWEEN – REMIX – Keiron Raven & Trap Music Now
- When: Oct. 6-29
- Address: The Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont
- Hours: Thursday 6-9p.m.; Friday-Saturday 6-11 p.m.; Sunday 6-10 p.m.
- Cost: $23.99/ages 12+, $15.99/children ages 3-12, free for children 2 and under
- Parking: Free parking is available at the Forge. The parking lot is about a 15-minute walk from Jack O’ Lantern World.
Tips for families attending Jack O’ Lantern World
- Tickets must be purchased in advance online. There will be no tickets sold on-site.
- Each ticket is valid for a reserved time slot. You must arrive at or within 15 minutes of the time on your ticket. Pro tip: If your crew always seems to forget something or needs an extra bathroom break, give yourself some extra wiggle room and book a slot a bit later than your anticipated arrival time.
- The path is a half-mile, crushed limestone trail. Most strollers, wheelchairs and wagons can navigate the path. Depending on your pace, the trail takes about 45 minutes to complete.
- Be sure to dress for the weather. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring a jacket or extra layer, and consider having a raincoat or umbrella on hand if the forecast calls for rain.
- Port-a-potties are available. If your child may be uncomfortable using them in the dark, make sure to use the bathroom before you leave.
- Sorry, no pets allowed. Only service animals are permitted on the path.
- A special needs event is held once a month. The event occurs about 40 minutes before true darkness so families can experience Jack O’ Lantern World when it is lighter and less crowded.
More fun things to do with kids in Lemont
- For families with older kiddos, the Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines is a great way to spend the day while you wait for the sun to set and Jack O’ Lantern World to light up. Try a ropes course, a zipline, water sports, laser tag, archery, ax throwing and more.
- Lemont Downtown hosts so many great events for families, including food truck socials, live music and more. Check its calendar to find a full list of events.
- Stop by the Lemont Farmers Market on Tuesday evenings from 4-7 p.m. for fresh produce and flowers, live music, art and more.
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