By Molly Snyder Senior Writer Published Sep 21, 2022 at 11:33 AM

This article was written in partnership with our friends at the Racine Zoo.Lions and tigers … and pumpkin masterpieces?! Yep, the Racine Zoo will soon host one of the city’s most bewitching and creative Halloween happenings.

Jack-O’-Lantern Nights rolls in the Racine Zoo from Thursday, Sept. 29 through Sunday, Oct. 30. During this timeframe, the fun runs Thursdays through Sundays from 6 to 10 p.m.

Families and friends are invited to amble through the Zoo along a dedicated paved pathway that’s adorned with dazzling lights and seasonal decorations including cats, owls, scarecrows and, of course, pumpkins!

racine night jack-o-lanternX
racine zoo jack-o-lanternsX

The intricately designed jack-o’-lanterns were created by a New York-based company called Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns. Using scalpels, knives, gouges and power tools, the artists spent dozens of hours sculpting a single jack-o'-lantern.

racine zoo jack-o-lantersX
racine zoo jack-o-lanternX

To complement the jack-o’-lanterns and ensure enough light for visitors, additional light displays illuminate the route.

Plus, local businesses and organizations created engaging Halloween-themed displays and guests will get to vote for their favorite. Seasonal food and beverages will also be for sale on site.

Admission to Jack-O'-Lantern Nights is $10 per person and free for guests 2 years and younger. Admission is only available at the door and both cash or credit cards will be accepted. All proceeds benefit the animals and programs of the Racine Zoo.

Guys, the pumpkin-spiciest season of the year will be over before you can say boo, so get this one on your calendar stat. Go here for more information. 

racine zoo jack-o-lanternX


Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.

Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.