Wednesday, October 14, 2026
By Submitted Story on September 24, 2026
The Elizabethan Gardens invites the public to A Night of 1587 Pumpkins on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Inspired by the arrival of English colonists to Roanoke Island in 1587, the Gardens will attempt to light 1,587 jack-o’-lanterns along a glowing pumpkin path for an unforgettable autumn celebration.
– Pumpkin Path: The Gardens will glow with jack-o’-lanterns carved by community members and staff. Attendees may bring carved pumpkins to display or carve a free pumpkin onsite during Pumpkin Carving Days.
– Pumpkin Carving Days: Wednesday, October 28 and Thursday, October 29, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Community members are invited to carve free pumpkins that will be added to the pumpkin path. Find yours on the evening of October 30 and take it home after the event.
– Trick-or-Treating & Pumpkin Drop-Off: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. — Drop off your pumpkins and enjoy family-friendly trick-or-treating through the Gardens.
– Contests: Costume and pumpkin contests begin at 7:00 p.m. with awards to follow.
– Bonfire & Snacks: Glow sticks and marshmallows will be available at the bonfire. Visit the Snack Shack-o’-Lantern for hot chocolate and apple cider.
– Community Spirit: This event is a true community effort — volunteers and garden visitors help carve and display the pumpkins that create the magical path.
– 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.: Pumpkin drop-off & trick-or-treating
– 7:00 p.m.: Contests begin
– 8:30 p.m.: Event concludes — thank you for joining us!
– Admission Information, please visit www.elizabethangardens.org
– Pumpkin carving: Free, on-site carving October 28–29, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
– Bring your own carved pumpkins: Welcome — please label pumpkins if you plan to take them home after the event.
A Night of 1587 Pumpkins is made possible through the generous support of Dominion Energy. The Elizabethan Gardens extends its gratitude for their sponsorship.
This is a family-friendly event; please supervise children. Accessible pathways are available throughout the Gardens
Join The Elizabethan Gardens for a spooky, fun-filled evening as the Gardens light up with 1,587 pumpkins — costumes encouraged!
