Pumpkin Fest

When: Friday, October 16–Saturday, October 17, 2026
Where: The Arboretum at Penn State

Celebrate the season with us at Pumpkin Fest 2026!

This annual family-friendly event is filled with autumn magic, dazzling jack-o’-lantern displays, contests, and live music. Savor seasonal bites from local food truck favorites and explore a variety of crafts and activities designed for all ages. It’s a perfect way to welcome fall with the whole family!

Jack-o’-Lantern Contest

The jack-o’-lantern contest is a fan-favorite at Pumpkin Fest! The Arboretum gives away pumpkins to community members for participation in the contest. Returned jack-o’-lanterns are displayed during Pumpkin Fest and awards are given for various themes and age groups.

To participate in the contest, follow these rules and pre-festival activities:

Jack-o'-lanterns on display during the Pumpkin Festival

Jack-o’-lanterns must be returned on Thursday, October 15, between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. or Friday, October 16, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Jack-o’-lanterns returned after this time can be displayed but will not be eligible for the contest.
Each participant is allowed one entry.
Each pumpkin must have a hole (minimum 4 inches diameter) carved in the bottom so the Arboretum can place it on top of a light. Participants may not supply their own lighting devices.
Children in the 2–4 and 5–7 age categories may enter decorated pumpkins (e.g., pom-poms, markers, paint, etc.). Pumpkins in all other age categories must be carved but may also be decorated.

Age Groups

Age 2–4
Age 5–7
Age 8–10
Age 11–13
Age 14–17
Penn State Student
Adult (18+)

Themes and Awards

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons will be awarded in each age group for the following categories:

Best in Show
Best Arboretum Theme
Best Penn State Theme
Best Pop Culture Theme

Groups such as classrooms, student organizations, or community organizations can request 10–30 pumpkins (limited availability, while supplies last). Individuals do not need to pre-order.

Deadline to Order: Wednesday, October 7

Group Pumpkin Order Form
(form opens on September 1)

Pick up your free pumpkin at the Arboretum to participate in the Pumpkin Fest jack-o’-lantern contest.

Sunday, October 11:

Groups that pre-registered: pick up from 1:00–2:00 p.m. (Arboretum Services Rd. behind the Palmer Museum)
Individuals: pick up from 2:00–4:00 p.m. (Overlook Pavilion)

Carved pumpkins must be returned during one of these times for inclusion in the Pumpkin Fest jack-o’-lantern contest.

Group Orders: remember to bring the tag you received for each pumpkin.

Thursday, October 15: 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Friday, October 16: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Pumpkin Fest Schedule of Events

Full schedule is coming soon!

Celebrate the season with us at Pumpkin Fest 2026!

Jack-o’-Lantern Contest

Rules and Awards

October 7: Deadline to Submit Group Pumpkin Orders

October 11: Pick Up Your Free Pumpkin

October 15-16: Return Your Carved Jack-o'-Lantern

Pumpkin Fest Schedule of Events