If you’re looking for something truly magical to do this Halloween season, Pumpkins After Dark is it! Adi and I checked it out last Friday, and we had such a lovely time. It’s one of those events that just screams fall vibes, and with over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins lighting up the night, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves Halloween—or even if you’re just looking for something cool to do this season.
What is Pumpkins After Dark?
Pumpkins After Dark is Canada’s award-winning outdoor Halloween event, featuring an incredible walk-through experience filled with pumpkin sculptures, lights, music, and special effects. As you wander down the 1km pathway, you’ll see everything from classic Halloween characters to dinosaurs, dragons, and even movie icons—carved entirely from pumpkins. It’s fun for the entire family, and there are plenty of Instagram-worthy moments along the way.
What to Expect
The event is set up at WinSport, and the pathway takes about 30 minutes to ah hour to walk through, depending on how many photo stops you make along the way (and trust me, there are plenty!). There’s a nice mix of light-hearted fun and spooky Halloween vibes, but it’s all super family-friendly, so bring the kids! There are even live pumpkin carving demonstrations where you can watch some seriously talented artists create their masterpieces on the spot.
While the displays and sculptures are the main attraction, there’s more to do! You can grab some fall treats and sweets from vendors along the way, making it a perfect night out for everyone.
Insider Tips
Timing: Plan to go around dusk when the pumpkins are glowing at their brightest. We arrived a little after sunset, and the timing couldn’t have been better.
Tickets: Prices can be a bit steep, especially on weekends (around $27 for adults), but honestly, if you’ve never been, it’s totally worth it! If you’re looking to save a little, check out Thriller Thursday deals for a bit of a discount.
Parking: There’s plenty of free parking at WinSport, which is a huge bonus.
Weather: Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Calgary fall weather can be chilly at night, so layering up is key.
Book tickets on Thriller Thursday to save some money!
Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! The event is stroller-friendly, so no worries if you’re bringing little ones. The terrain is mostly paved, with a few uneven spots, but it’s still accessible for strollers and wheelchairs (though some assistance may be needed in certain areas). Keep in mind there are flashing lights and loud sounds, so if anyone in your group is sensitive to those, plan accordingly.
Pricing
Tickets for Pumpkins After Dark vary depending on the day of the week:
Thriller Thursday: $21.62 for adults, $17.49 for youth
Weekend Admission: Starting at $27.81 for adults, $23.68 for youth
Weekday Admission: Starting at $26.78 for adults, $22.65 for youth
They also offer a Family Package for two adults and two youth that saves you $5, and kids under 3 get in for free! If you need flexibility, the Flex Pass (priced at $43.29) lets you attend on any date.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never seen Pumpkins After Dark, it’s one of those experiences that’s perfect for the fall season. Yes, it can get a bit pricey, but for the sheer creativity and atmosphere, it’s something worth checking out at least once. We had such a great time wandering through the displays, and it’s definitely an event we’ll be adding to our fall traditions.
Don’t forget to subscribe to WanderingInYYC for more guides on the best things to do in Calgary this season! 🎃
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