Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Fri, Oct 17 – Sat, Oct 18, 2025 • 6:30pm - 9:30pm

1740 West Fayette Avenue, Springfield, IL 62704

Enjoy the sparking splendor of illuminated hand-carved jack-o-lanterns displayed around the Carillon and the Washington Park Botanical Garden.

The annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular was founded by former Rees Carillon Society Board Member Brenda Poston. The event is inspired by the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Providence, Rhode Island – featuring the talents of professional artists only. Springfield’s event differs in that everyone is invited–from students, individuals, families and artists–from the community to participate and carve their own pumpkin at Carve for the Carillon (the second weekend each October). The following Friday and Saturday, more than 2,000 illuminated hand-carved jack-o-lanterns are displayed around the Carillon and the Washington Park Botanical Garden – showcasing carving talents of area residents, artists and local students. Springfield’s events are participatory and family-focused. JOLS features special Carillon music, lighting, and food vendors

Places to stay nearby...

The Pasfield House

Springfield

Boutique Vibes in Downtown Historic Springfield

Read more about The Pasfield House

Inn at 835

Springfield

Springfield's only Nationally Landmarked Inn.

Read more about Inn at 835

State House Inn - Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Springfield

Located in downtown Springfield, the State House Inn is right across the street from the Illinois State Capitol complex.

Read more about State House Inn - Trademark Collection by Wyndham

You might also be interested...

Dual Piano in Concert at The Hoogland Center for the Arts

The Hoogland Center for the Arts •  Aug 08 – Aug 10 @ 7PM

Prepare to be in stitches as Dual Piano returns to the Hoogland Center for the Arts August 8th-10th.

Read more about Dual Piano in Concert at The Hoogland Center for the Arts

Illinois State Fair

Illinois State Fairgrounds •  Aug 07 – Aug 17 @ 7AM

The Illinois State Fair has been celebrated nearly every year since 1953 as a showcase for Illinois agriculture. Come join the fun August 10th-20th.

Read more about Illinois State Fair

Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum •  May 23 – Aug 24 @ 9AM

Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch is on display at the ALPLM, May 23 - August 24

Read more about Lincoln: Sight, Sound & Touch at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.