Seven thousand pumpkins, every one carved by hand on site, arranged into dinosaurs, a planetarium and a working carousel across an 18th-century estate on the Croton River - the most photographed fall night in the Hudson Valley, and it earns it. September is the sweet spot, before October sells out entirely. Opening night is Friday Sept 18, and the Hudson Line puts you a short walk from the gate.
What to expect
This is an evening event on a timed ticket, so it is really a half-day: train up in the late afternoon, walk the trail for about an hour, and be back in the city by late evening. September runs select evenings only, so check the calendar before you buy - and buy early, because tickets are advance-only and never sold at the gate. Bring a layer; the trail is entirely outdoors and the river gets cold after dark.
Good to know
- Car-free: Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central to Croton-Harmon, about 45-55 minutes. Van Cortlandt Manor is under a mile from the platform, with a publis
- Check the last southbound train before you book your entry slot - this is a night event and the Hudson Line thins out late.
- Tickets start at $24, timed entry, advance purchase only. FLEX tickets let you come any open night without a reservation.
- In September it runs select evenings, not nightly - October is the only month open every night.
Planning Sep 18–20, 2026 in NYC?
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Common questions
How do I get there without a car?
Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central to Croton-Harmon, roughly 45-55 minutes. Van Cortlandt Manor is under a mile from the station and Historic Hudson Valley publishes a walking map routed over the pedestrian bridge. Taxis wait at the
Does it run every night in September?
No. The 2026 season opens Friday Sept 18 and runs select evenings through the month; only October is open every night. Check the ticketing calendar for your date.
Can I buy at the gate?
No. Blaze is advance timed tickets only and they are not sold on site. October dates sell out, which is an argument for going on an opening September evening.
