The 9th annual Festival of the Jack O’Lanterns at the Chattanooga Nature Center is set for Saturday, Oct. 18, from 2-9 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 19, from 1-6 p.m. Events for the whole family include a petting zoo, pony rides, kids costume contest, games for toddlers and an opportunity to watch the Tennessee vs. Alabama football game on television.
Other activities the family can enjoy include pumpkin carving, storytelling, a bonfire for cooking smores, live music, hayrides through the Reflection Riding Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and several outdoor movies including, “It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown.”
In the Kiddie Korner, toddlers and pre-schoolers can “go-fish,” “pick-up-the-duck” and play many other games. Prizes are awarded, and every child will have a complimentary bag to use for all their goodies. At dusk, the Blue Heron Boardwalk will light up during the “Lighting of the Jack O’Lanterns” featuring carved pumpkins.
Food vendors will be available and there will be baked goods, smores, juices, soft drinks and other goodies for purchase.
Guests can bring a blanket or chairs to sit in to watch the movies. Or, show off their artistic side by entering the pumpkin carving contest. Pumpkins can be purchased at the event or bring your own.
The cost to attend is $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 4 through 11. The cost for non-members is $12 for adults and $10 for children. Children three and under get in free. There will be an additional charge for pony rides. Visa, Master Card American Express, checks or cash will be accepted at the festival.
For more information or to get directions, call 821-1160 or visit chattanooganaturecenter.org.