Take a Halloween-themed trip to Hudson Valley to get into the fall spirit. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Hudson Valley, New York is commonly referred to as “The Blaze” because it features more than 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins across the grounds.
The Blaze
“The Blaze” is known as “The Hudson Valley’s most electrifying fall happening.” It takes about 45 to 90 minutes to walk the half-mile path on the grounds of the historic Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-On-Hudson. It’s the perfect 18th-century backdrop for this autumn festival.
The path is lined with illuminated jack o’ lanterns all designed and hand-carved by a team of artisans. They’re creatively stacked into themes and displays with synchronized lighting to an original soundtrack to top off this one-of-a-kind event. Each year there’s something new to see. There’s even a New York City streetscape!
Blaze Brews
Local brewing company, Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, is a sponsor and serves up some festive beers at Blaze. This year, guests can enjoy Autumn Blaze Pumpkin Ale and an Oktoberfest-style ale called Stingy Jack. Both are created exclusively for serving at Blaze. Stingy Jack is named after the protagonist of an Irish folktale, who is said to be the originator of our beloved jack o’lantern.
Tickets And Information
The Blaze is open from September 16 through November 20. You must buy advance tickets. They will not be available at the door. Flex tickets are available.
Visit Croton-On-Hudson
This quaint little town just 35 miles from midtown Manhattan sits at the confluence of the Croton and Hudson Rivers. The 5-square-mile town is packed with history, outdoor activities, and lots of delicious foods to eat.
For some adventure, visit the RiverWalk that takes you to the Hudson River for some spectacular views, or hike the Croton Gorge Park. A 92-acre park that houses the Croton Dam. It was completed in 1907 and stands 297 feet tall. It’s a fantastic view from both the base and the trail that overlooks its spillway. Rent a kayak from Hudson River Recreation and while paddling down the water, watch for osprey, hawks, heron, and a glimpse of the Tappan Zee Bridge.
History buffs will want to walk through Bethel Cemetery where gravestones date back to the 1700s. Bethel Chapel and Asbury United Methodist Church are still in use today and are on the National Register of Historic Places.
About Historic Hudson Valley
All proceeds from Blaze and other Halloween events support the programs of Historic Hudson Valley, a non-profit education organization. It interprets and promotes historic landmarks of national significance in the Hudson Valley for the benefit and enjoyment of the public. Every year it welcomes more than 250,000 visitors to its network of historic sites, special events, and reaches tens of thousands more through digital programs and off-site school programs.
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