PumpkinMania at Transylvania 2025

Transylvania University’s PumpkinMania presented by University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union returns to downtown Lexington with a family-friendly pumpkin carving event Sunday, Oct. 26, and a jack-o’-lantern display each night from Oct. 26‑30.

The return of PumpkinMania is made possible this year by the generous support of our sponsors.

PumpkinMania Festival: Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, 11 am – 3 pm — Pumpkin carving, games, food trucks and activities for all ages. Reservations required for carving.

Jack-o’-lantern display: Every night Oct. 26–30

PumpkinMania is back for its 15th year at Transylvania University, and Lexington is ready to glow again. Each October, the steps of historic Old Morrison — a National Historic Landmark — come alive with the light of hundreds of carved jack-o’-lanterns. Families, alumni, students and community members gather to create one of the region’s most breathtaking Halloween traditions.

This year’s theme, Carved in History, honors Transylvania University’s nearly 250-year role in Lexington’s story while celebrating alumni, current students and future Pioneers who continue to make history today. PumpkinMania blends tradition and community with family-friendly fun, making it a must-see fall event in central Kentucky. Sponsored by Forcht Bank, Lexington Event Company, BimGroup, k. north, ESG and Commonwealth Credit Union.

The Transylvania and Lexington communities are invited to carve pumpkins Oct. 26, 2025.

Tickets

Register for a ticket for each member of your party who would like to carve a pumpkin. Individuals can request up to three tickets, and each will be good for one pumpkin. Please arrive at the time your ticket is reserved to ensure you receive a pumpkin for carving. Pumpkins not claimed within the first half hour of the ticket reservation will be released to others for carving.

Tickets are not required to attend the festival and carving but are encouraged to ensure a pumpkin will be reserved for you. *Watch for a ticket link on the PumpkinMania website. Tickets open up October 1st.

Location

The carving will be in front of Transylvania’s Old Morrison administration building off Third Street.

Parking

Parking will be available in the Transylvania lots and on streets surrounding campus. Please read all signs and abide by parking limitations posted by the city.