The Great Pumpkin Trail at Hendrie Park, Burlington: A Magical Fall Tradition
October 15-18 & 23-25, 2026
Hendrie Park, Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington
The Great Pumpkin Trail Returns to RBG for Halloween 2026
As the leaves change and the crispness of fall settles in, Hendrie Park at Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) becomes the setting for one of the region’s most enchanting autumn experiences: The Great Pumpkin Trail. Returning from October 15 to 18 and October 23 to 25, 2026, this family-friendly Halloween event transforms the gardens and surrounding Hendrie Valley into a glowing autumn wonderland featuring hundreds of jack-o’-lanterns, artistic pumpkin displays, seasonal entertainment and activities for the whole family.
The centrepiece of the experience is the candlelit 1-kilometre Pumpkin Trail, which winds from Hendrie Park into the Hendrie Valley. Along the route, thousands of real pumpkins are arranged in artistic displays and installations, creating a magical atmosphere as visitors make their way through the gardens and nature sanctuary. The trail is illuminated primarily by the glow of the jack-o’-lanterns, so guests are encouraged to bring a flashlight and wear sturdy footwear.
An Evening of Autumn Fun and Entertainment
The Great Pumpkin Trail is designed as a scare-free, all-ages Halloween experience, making it an ideal autumn outing for families with young children. Dressing up is optional but encouraged, with RBG asking guests to keep costumes fun and family-friendly. Visitors can expect traditional Halloween props and décor, along with roaming costumed characters adding to the festive atmosphere.
Along with the pumpkin displays, guests can enjoy live entertainment, pumpkin-themed activities and seasonal food and beverages. Entertainment is scheduled beneath the Rose Garden tent and throughout the gardens, while family-friendly games and activities take place on the lawn. RBG’s mobile kitchen and local food trucks will also offer seasonal favourites and other handheld foods during the event.
The 2026 entertainment lineup and additional activities are still to be announced, so visitors should check RBG’s event page for updates as the event approaches.
Explore the Pumpkin Trail
The main trail is approximately 1 kilometre long, beginning in Hendrie Park before winding into the Hendrie Valley along the South Bridle and Kicking Horse trails and returning to Hendrie Park at a different location.
This portion of the experience is a genuine nature trail with uneven ground, rough terrain, inclines and hilly sections. Strollers and wagons are not recommended on the main route.
For visitors who require an accessible or stroller-friendly option, RBG offers a shorter ¼-kilometre loop within the garden that starts and ends at the same point and is fully wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly.
Because portions of the trail are dark and illuminated only by jack-o’-lanterns, RBG recommends bringing a flashlight and wearing sturdy footwear.
2026 Tickets and Timeslots
The Great Pumpkin Trail is a time-ticketed experience and pre-purchased tickets are required. Guests select an entry time when purchasing their tickets and should arrive no sooner than 15 minutes before their scheduled timeslot. The event runs until 10 p.m., with sunset expected at approximately 6:30 p.m.
2026 admission:
- Adults, ages 13+: $25-$27, plus HST and a $2 service fee
- Children, ages 3-12: $18-$20, plus HST and a $2 service fee
- Infants and toddlers, ages 0-2: Free, but registration and a ticket are still required
The available 2026 entry times begin at 5:30 p.m. and continue in 15-minute intervals through 8:30 p.m. Due to the popularity of the event, tickets are expected to sell quickly.
Tickets are final sale, so visitors should select their date and time carefully when booking.
Plan Your Visit
The Great Pumpkin Trail 2026 takes place at Hendrie Park, Royal Botanical Gardens, 680 Plains Rd. W., Burlington, Ontario. Event access is through RBG Centre, where event guests can check in before entering Hendrie Park. Parking is available in the large lot at RBG Centre, with additional parking and a complimentary shuttle available if the main lot fills.
The event is 100% outdoors and takes place rain or moonshine, so dress appropriately for October weather. RBG may postpone, reschedule or cancel the event in the event of severe weather or other circumstances affecting guest safety.
For adults looking for a more grown-up Halloween experience, RBG After Dark: Pumpkin Trail takes place on October 22, 2026 as a separate 19+ event.
The Great Pumpkin Trail offers a magical way to experience the beauty of autumn while celebrating Halloween with family and friends. From glowing jack-o’-lanterns and seasonal entertainment to pumpkin-themed activities and the atmospheric trail through Hendrie Valley, it’s an unforgettable fall experience for visitors of all ages.
For tickets and the latest event information, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens’ Great Pumpkin Trail.
Note: The Great Pumpkin Trail is a 1km loop, beginning in Hendrie Park, continuing down into the Hendrie Valley and returning in Hendrie Park. Please note only a ¼ km section of the trail is fully wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly. The trail route is lit by the jack-o-lanterns. You are encouraged to bring a flashlight as it can get dark out there! The remainder includes rough terrain. Strollers and wagons are not recommended.
