Light Up the Night at the Detroit Zoo’s Jack O’ Lantern Journey

See illuminated pumpkin displays, fall photo opportunities and more at this brand-new Halloween experience.

The Detroit Zoo unveiled its newest Halloween-themed event on Oct. 5, 2024. We got to get a sneak peek of Jack O’ Lantern Journey beforehand and cannot be more excited for our readers to check it out!

There are different-themed illuminated pumpkin displays throughout– with themes such as Harry Potter, Disney Princesses, Marvel, Detroit Sports, Star Wars, Wizard of Oz and more. We’re a Harry Potter loving family, so that was the one Jordan and I liked the most, but the Detroit Sports display was really cool, too!

Jack O' Lantern Journey
Photo credit: Detroit Zoo

There are lots of fall décor and photo opportunities to check out along the way, too. The event reminded us of the Detroit Zoo’s Wild Lights – which features animal-themed light sculptures and other twinkling light displays throughout the zoo. That is always a must-see event for us during the holidays, so we knew we would love Jack O’ Lantern Journey just as much!

Book your tickets in advance to guarantee admission to this fun, new event!

Jack O’ Lantern Journey at the Detroit Zoo

Jack O' Lantern Journey
Photo credit: Kari Zaffarano

  • Dates: 5-6, 25-27, 2024
  • Address: 8450 W. Ten Mile Road, Royal Oak
  • Hours: 5-10 p.m.
  • Cost: $19-plus/members, $21-plus/non-members; $8/parking for non-members, free/parking for members; Group pricing is available for groups of 20 and more.

You can choose from different packages when attending Jack O’ Lantern Journey.

  • The online general admission with access to Jack O’ Lantern Journey is $19-$24 for members and $21-$27 for non-members.
  • The Attractions Package is $32 and includes access to Jack O’ Lantern Journey, one carousel ticket, one 4D theater ticket and a voucher for cider and a donut.
  • The Picnic Package is $45 and includes access to Jack O’ Lantern Journey and access to a fall-themed buffet in Table 28 restaurant.
  • The Jack O’ Lantern Journey + Wild Lights Package is $36 and includes a ticket to both the Jack O’ Lantern Journey and Wild Lights events. These tickets can be used on any date.

Things to do at Jack O’ Lantern Journey

Jack O' Lantern Journey
Photo credit: Kari Zaffarano

  • There will be live entertainment throughout the zoo for families to enjoy.
  • Grab donuts, cider and other seasonal items from Blake’s Market.
  • Some animal habitats may be open during the event, so make sure to check those out.
  • Guests are encouraged to wear their costumes to this event and other Fall Fest events at the zoo. Check out the list of prohibited items for costumes on the website.

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Kari Zaffarano
Kari Zaffarano
Kari Zaffarano is a mom of one and Metro Parent's Content Writer. She tracks down the best events every week and shares the inside scoop with families online. She enjoys reading, traveling and exploring metro Detroit with her son.

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