Glow at the Gardens
York Street Location
Wander an immersive, illuminated path to discover enchanted landscapes animated by live performers with hand-carved pumpkin displays around every bend. While most nighttime Halloween events feature foam “funkins,” every single one of our grimacing jack-o’-lanterns and larger-than-life sculptures is freshly carved from real, locally grown pumpkins.
Whether you come in an elaborate costume* or simply in a macabre mood – there’s something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind experience!
Important details:
- You must purchase a ticket online for a specific date and time to visit. Tickets will not be available onsite.
- Last entry is 9 p.m. The event ends at 9:45 p.m.
- Themed food and beverages are available for purchase.
- *Costume masks that obscure the entire face are not permitted for guests over age 17.
- Denver Botanic Gardens reserves the right to confiscate any props that we identify as a weapon on a case-by-case basis.
To reduce waste, printed maps will not be available at Glow at the Gardens. Here is a PDF of the site map.
Meet this year's pumpkin carvers.
Glow Before Dark
Oct. 19-21, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Oct. 22-27, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Miss out on Glow at the Gardens tickets? Visit during the day and enjoy enchanting vignettes from our nighttime event.
Learn more
Volunteer Opportunities
Pre-Event: Oct. 20-21
Event: Oct. 22-27
- Pre-event and event volunteer opportunities include pumpkin gutting/carving/placement and additional setup tasks.
- Assistance during the event includes greeting and answering general questions, wayfinding and event support.
- Snacks or dinner will be provided, depending on the event shift.
- Volunteers must be 18 or older to volunteer.
Glow at the Gardens Volunteer Application
Email vol@botanicgardens.org with questions about volunteering. Individuals and groups welcome.
$26 - $32 Public
$24 - $30 Members
$24 - $30 Military
$28 - $30 Students
Free admission for children 2 and younger
- Group pricing is not available for special events. Become a member for discounted ticket prices.
- Ticket purchase subject to availability; membership does not guarantee ticket to event.
- Timed tickets must be purchased in advance; tickets are limited in each time slot. Tickets will not be available onsite.
Gallery
FAQ
Is this event scary or appropriate for all ages?
The event is not very scary. Spooky illusions, props and sound effects are featured in certain areas. The displays do not include graphic or violent content.
How many of your pumpkins are real?
Every single one! Every pumpkin featured at the event was harvested from a local farm and hand-carved by our pumpkin carving team. The sculptures are supported by metal or wooden armatures with the occasional use of props, however the pumpkins themselves are all real.
Are costumes permitted?
Yes! We encourage guests to wear costumes.
- Weapons (real or fake) are NOT permitted.
- Costume masks covering the entire face are not permitted for guests over age 17.
May I use my tickets on any night of Glow at the Gardens?
No. Please attend Glow at the Gardens on the date you purchased tickets for, and during the entry window listed on your ticket. Glow at the Gardens takes place rain, snow or shine.
When should I buy my tickets? Will any be available at the door?
Tickets must be purchased in advance. We highly recommend purchasing tickets as far in advance as you can as this event sells out each year. Tickets will not be for sale at the door.
Can I use my SNAP EBT card or the Five by Five Program card for entry?
SNAP discount and the Five by Five program do not apply to Glow at the Gardens entry.
Is there parking? Is there a coat check?
Free parking is available in our parking garage. However, parking is limited and fills quickly. If you park in the surrounding neighborhood on a side street, please be respectful of our neighbors. Consider using these alternate modes of transportation:
- RTD: Use routes #24 (York and Josephine Streets) or #10 (12th Avenue) to access the Gardens.
- Bicycle Colorado and Bike Streets: The Gardens joins Bicycle Colorado and Bike Streets in encouraging cycling as a form of transportation. Bike racks are available at the York Street main entrance.
There is limited coat check availability inside Boettcher Memorial Center at the Information Desk.
Is Glow at the Gardens ADA accessible and are wheelchairs or strollers available onsite?
Yes, but keep in mind that some paths are narrow. Wheelchairs and strollers can be checked out on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are accepted. Learn more about accessibility at the Gardens.
Will any areas of the Gardens be closed during Glow at the Gardens?
Specific gardens (including Mordecai Children’s Garden) are not included as part of the Glow at the Gardens pathway and are closed off from entry during the event.
Are pets allowed at Glow at the Gardens?
Pets are not permitted at this event. Service dogs/animals are allowed.