Magic of the Jack O’ Lanterns 2024 Photos

Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is back for its second Halloween season in Los Angeles, running on select nights from September 20 through November 2 at Whittier Narrows Recreation Center in South El Monte. The outdoor trail features thousands of carved pumpkins arranged in numerous themed displays depicting spooky scenes that will delight but not frighten children, making it the perfect family-friendly Halloween event.

Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns contains one or two new elements this year, but the overall presentation remains much the same as it was in Halloween 2023. Also, things got off to a slow start on opening weekend, with some displays looking slightly underlit. This is definitely a smaller scale event than other outdoor pumpkin displays such as Nights of the Jack and Carved, but the length is well-suited to the target audience.

Whittier Narrows Recreation Center is located at 750 S. Santa Anita Avenue in South El Monte. Ticket prices start at $24.99 for children and $29.99 for adults. There are additional fees for add-ons, such as preferred parking, 3D glasses to enhance the sight of the Jack O’Lanterns, and ‘Smores packages, which you can toast over an open fire at a rest stop halfway along the trail. Food and beverage trucks and stands are located before the entrance to the trail, and there is a store selling themed merchandise.

Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns runs on weekends and select weeknights. Current hours are 7pm to 11pm on Fridays & Saturdays, 7pm to 10pm on Sundays & weeknights. As the days grow shorter in October and November, start times will begin earlier, and the event will be open on more weeknights. Check the official website for exact times: magicofthejackolanterns.com/la.

Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns 2024 Photographs