More Than 5,000 Glowing Pumpkins Are Taking Over This Michigan Fairground

I've carved a few pumpkins over the years, and I can tell you one thing.

By the time I get done with the second one, I'm usually pretty much over it.

Jack O'Lanterns Unleashed takes over the Ingham County Fairgrounds again this year with more than 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins on display. Photo via Unsplash (Mirella Callage)

So I can't even imagine the patience involved in carving more than 5,000 pumpkins.

But that's exactly what you'll find at the Ingham County Fairgrounds in Mason, where Jack O'Lanterns Unleashed returns Thursday, October 8.

And apparently, somebody's been VERY busy getting ready for Halloween.

5,000 Jack-O'-Lanterns Light Up Mason, Michigan

This isn't just a bunch of pumpkins sitting around with candles inside.

We're talking more than 5,000 hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns, arranged into more than 30 different themed displays along a half-mile illuminated walking trail.

READ MORE: 6 Pumpkin Patches to Visit Near Lansing This Fall

You'll see everything from dinosaurs to underwater scenes, all glowing after dark.

And unlike some Halloween attractions, this one's designed to be fun for the whole family, without people jumping out of the bushes to scare the daylights out of you.

Family-Friendly Halloween Activities at the Fairgrounds

There's plenty happening beyond the pumpkin displays, too.

Visitors can enjoy free glow golf and kids' tricycle racing, along with bounce houses and other games available for an additional charge.

You'll also find fall favorites like donuts, cider and s'mores.

Dog-Friendly Nights and Sensory-Friendly Experiences

And here's something dog owners might appreciate: Thursdays are designated dog-friendly nights, so your four-legged family members can come along.

There's even a special sensory-friendly evening scheduled for October 14.

Jack O'Lanterns Unleashed 2026 Dates, Hours and Tickets

Jack O'Lanterns Unleashed runs Thursdays through Sundays, October 8 through November 1, at the Ingham County Fairgrounds, 700 East Ash Street in Mason.

Online adult admission ranges from $15 to $20, depending on the night.

Kids 12 and younger get in free.

READ MORE: This Lansing Halloween Event Has Way More Than Just Candy

Hours vary by date, so check jackolanternsunleashed.com before heading out.

And if you're going, be sure to wear some comfortable shoes.

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That's a LOT of pumpkins to look at.