“JAC’s”-o’-lanterns pick brightens your October weekends

If you have ever been near Old Westbury Gardens on an October weekend, you may have seen have seen the nighttime illuminated with a glow – the direct result of thousands of hand-carved, lit jack-o’-lanterns created for RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns. For those Long Islanders that have never been to this annual pumpkin feast-for-the-eyes, don’t fret; you are not alone. I, too, will be attending for the first time! You can experience this magical event Fridays through Sundays (with Oct. 20 and 27 available, as well), from Oct. 7-30.

The RISE makes pumpkin carving look easy, with jack-o’-lanterns – made of both real pumpkins and life-like artificial ones – arranged along a scenic walking path. This unique walk-through experience will be accompanied by a music score playing in the background while you gaze upon these intriguing pumpkins. This event is suitable for all ages.

Plans for The RISE this year are to feature 5,000 fresh, real pumpkins carved and lit each weekend. How cool is that? Multi-pumpkin structures, consisting of dozens of illuminated jack-o’-lanterns, will also be assembled into life-sized pieces of art, including dinosaurs and dragons. There will undoubtedly be something for everyone to enjoy and even snap a picture of, including carved pumpkins of beloved film characters – like one that will make you feel as if you’re in a galaxy far, far away.

I can find no better way to celebrate my Halloween season than visiting this almost-magical pumpkin patch. Tickets are already available online. And if you go, have fun, readers!

RISE of the Jack O’ Lanterns
6-10:30 p.m.
Old Westbury Gardens
71 Old Westbury Road, Westbury
516-252-3392 · therise.org.