Author: Winter Adair
On Saturday, September 21st, I enjoyed visiting Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns, an annual Halloween extravaganza held at Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, southeast of Los Angeles. Accompanied by my good friend and photographer, Levi Wicked, we immersed ourselves in a world where the magic of Halloween truly comes to life. This unique event, designed to enchant visitors of all ages, offers a delightful fusion of artistry, imagination, and a festive atmosphere. It is a perfect outing for families, Halloween enthusiasts, and anyone looking to embrace the spooky season without fear of frights.
From the moment we entered, it was as though we had stepped into a euphoric haven for Halloween lovers. The park was aglow with hundreds of intricately carved Jack O’Lanterns, each one more fascinating than the last. These pumpkins weren’t your typical jack-o’-lanterns with simple grins or spooky faces—they were masterpieces of art, ranging from playful expressions to intricate depictions of creatures and iconic figures from pop culture.
Walking through the event, we marveled at the diversity of carvings. Each section featured pumpkins carved into beloved characters from film, television, and even real-life icons. This attention to detail gave the experience a whimsical, nostalgic touch that both children and adults could appreciate. From the eerie glow of pumpkins portraying The Little Mermaid and Rick & Morty to the heroic depictions of Spider-Man and The Avengers, there was something for everyone.
What sets Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns apart from other Halloween events is its commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Unlike haunted houses or terrifying attractions that focus on jump scares, this event emphasizes fun and enchantment. No scare actors were lurking in the shadows or sudden frights, making it the ideal destination for families with young children or for those who prefer a more lighthearted celebration of Halloween.
For me, one of the most remarkable aspects of Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is its accessibility, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. As someone who is Autistic, I was deeply appreciative of how sensory-friendly the event was. The lighting was soft and inviting without being overwhelming, and the music was kept at a comfortable volume throughout the entire path. The absence of scare actors made it a safe environment, not just for young children, but for anyone who might feel uneasy in high-intensity settings.
The event staff were incredibly helpful, and regularly stationed along the path to provide guidance or assistance if needed. While the path never became so dark that it was disorienting, it was reassuring to know that help was always close by. This level of consideration and accessibility made the experience all the more enjoyable, allowing guests of all abilities to relax and take in the wonder of the evening.
One of the event’s highlights was the children’s play area located about halfway through the path. This dedicated space featured several Halloween-themed bouncy houses that kept kids entertained and burning off energy while their parents took a breather. For the adults, a small commons area nearby offered a respite, complete with picnic tables and a bar where parents could enjoy a drink. Though the alcohol wasn’t cheap, I can assure you that the drinks were strong enough to be worth the price!
Additionally, the commons area had individual campfire stations where visitors could purchase supplies to make their s’mores. There’s something undeniably special about roasting marshmallows over an open fire on a cool fall evening, and the s’mores station provided the perfect opportunity for families to share in a cozy, autumnal tradition.
As we ventured further, we encountered one of the most impressive sections of the evening: The Jack O’Lantern Museum. This area showcased a stunning array of specially carved pumpkins featuring some of the most recognizable figures from science, film, and television. From Neil deGrasse Tyson to Bill Nye the Science Guy, the museum paid tribute to intellectual icons who have inspired generations.
In addition to real-life figures, the museum featured beloved characters from movies and TV shows. Beatrix Kiddo from Kill Bill was there, wielding her katana. We spotted Miles Morales’ Spider-Man mid-swing and the creepy, kooky demeanor of Jenna Ortega’s Wednesday Addams. Each pumpkin carving was a testament to the skill and artistry of the event’s creators, giving fans the chance to see their favorite characters brought to life in a whole new light.
After exiting the museum, we found ourselves walking through a magical winter wonderland. As fake snow gently fell around us, we admired winter-themed Jack O’Lanterns carved with snowflakes and snowmen. The contrast of chilly winter imagery against the warm glow of the pumpkins was an enchanting sight, offering a seasonal shift that was both unexpected and delightful.
The journey didn’t stop there. We were then transported to an underwater world where the artistry continued to amaze us. Carved sea creatures, including tortoises, jellyfish, and even an enormous Kraken attacking a ship, loomed over us, evoking a sense of awe at the attention to detail and the scale of the displays.
Next came the Heroes section, which featured larger-than-life carvings of some of today’s most popular pop culture heroes and anti-heroes. Seeing Iron Man, Black Panther, Black Widow, and Venom carved into pumpkins was a visual treat for any fan of superhero films and comics. The intricate designs highlighted not just the visual appeal of these characters but also the cultural significance they hold in today’s media landscape.
As we neared the end of our magical journey, we entered the final section—outer space. Here, the artistry celebrated the enduring appeal of Star Wars. Massive pumpkin carvings of beloved characters like Yoda, Chewbacca, Princess Leia, and Luke Skywalker greeted us, their familiar faces lit by the soft glow of candlelight. This section was particularly exciting, as it allowed visitors to feel the Force with each step.
Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns is truly a magical event that brings together the joy of Halloween with an atmosphere of artistic creativity and inclusivity. From the stunning pumpkin carvings to the thoughtful design of the experience itself, it offers something for everyone—whether you’re a fan of superheroes, a lover of art, or simply someone looking for a family-friendly fall outing.
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Are you ready for Halloween fun? Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns runs from September 20th to November 2nd so grab your tickets now at Magic of the Jack O’Lanterns website and bask in the pumpkins’ glow!