Why Kids (and Parents) Love Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom Why Kids (and Parents) Love Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom

Why Kids (and Parents) Love Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom


September 17, 2025

If your family is searching for a fall tradition packed with play, pumpkins, and plenty of thrills, look no further than Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom. From September 26 through October 26, the park transforms every Friday through Sunday into a seasonal celebration full of autumn color, character greetings, glowing sculptures, and kid-friendly fun, all alongside the classic rides and attractions that families already love.

Start with a Spin Through Discovery Meadow

Kentucky Kingdom’s Discovery Meadow is already a top destination for younger guests, and during the fall, it becomes even more magical. Pint-sized rides like Scout’s Squirrel Race, Garden Carousel, Seed Spinner, and Nature’s Bounty offer safe thrills with big smiles. You’ll also find gentle favorites like Spring Fling and Hollyhock & Roll, perfect for first-time riders.

Play Days: Carnival Games, Candy, and Mazes

During the days, families can enjoy a lineup of festive fall activities. Try your hand at pumpkin-themed carnival games, explore a friendly hay maze, and stroll down the Trick-or-Treat Trail where costumed hosts hand out candy at every stop. Themed entertainment and character appearances add a layer of whimsy to every corner of the park.

Pro tip: Wear your favorite costume! While not required, dressing up makes the Trick-or-Treat Trail even more exciting.

Glow Nights: When the Park Lights Up

As the sun sets, the park glows, literally. At night, Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom offers a dazzling nighttime experience, with over 1,000 illuminated pumpkins lighting up the park paths. Four larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures bring the “wow” factor: a Derby Horse, Glowing Cat, Spider, and The Pumpkinseeds.

Add in a family-friendly dance party and interactive nighttime entertainment, and you’ve got a truly magical fall evening for all ages.

Fall Rides for Every Age

The pumpkins and play are just the beginning. Families can still enjoy all their favorite rides during the event:

  • Woodland Run delivers quick wooden coaster thrills without being too intense.
  • Kentucky Flyer offers high-flying fun through 12 turbulent airtime moments!
  • For those who want to go big, Lightning Run still brings that massive drop and airtime-packed adrenaline rush for the older thrill-seekers in your crew.

There’s truly something for every member of the family.

Treats, Eats, and Festival Sweets

No fall event is complete without themed food, and Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom delivers. Caramel apples, pulled pork sandwich with pumpkin bbq sauce, pumpkin hand-dipped ice cream, and so much more. Keep an eye out for limited-time fall menu items, featuring flavors like apple, cinnamon, maple, and pumpkin spice.

And don’t forget to browse the festival-exclusive merchandise. You’ll find plush Scout toys, light-up accessories, and cozy seasonal souvenirs to take a piece of the fall magic home.

One Fall Festival, Endless Family Fun

Whether your family is all about rides, snacks, characters, or glowing pumpkins, Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom brings it all together in one safe, exciting space. With new surprises around every corner, it's no wonder families return year after year to experience this one-of-a-kind fall festival.

Don’t miss it, plan your visit today! Buy your season passes or tickets today.



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