ARLINGTON, Texas—Children dart through a hay maze, cider steam drifts through the night air and thousands of glowing pumpkins guide visitors along winding trails.
Welcome to Pumpkin Nights, Arlington’s most enchanting fall tradition.
What began as a working farm more than a century ago is now a seasonal destination where families gather for lights, food and fall fun. Howell Farms, dating back to the early 1900s, still carries the weight of Arlington’s agricultural roots. But every October, the land transforms into a glowing wonderland, blending nostalgia with spectacle.
For Mansfield grandmother Carla Lopez, that transformation is part of the magic. Visiting Pumpkin Nights with her three grandchildren, she watched their faces light up as they wandered beneath glowing archways.
“My kids were so wide-eyed walking through the pumpkin tunnels,” Lopez said. “It honestly felt like stepping into a storybook, you know.”
Lights, pumpkins and Texas-sized fun
At the heart of the festival are more than 7,500 hand-carved, custom-designed pumpkins arranged into themed displays. Glowing pathways lead to pirate ships, enchanted forests and Día de los Muertos altars, each scene designed to surprise at every turn. Music, lights and storytelling elevate the displays beyond decoration, creating immersive art installations.
“It’s the attention to detail that keeps us coming back,” said Jason Kerr, an Arlington resident who has attended three years in a row. “They really go all out.”
Beyond the pumpkins, Howell Farms leans into its heritage. Kids climb hay bales, families ride tractors, and food vendors dish out kettle corn, turkey legs and spiced cider. The mix of farm traditions and theatrical displays sets Pumpkin Nights apart from other fall attractions.
Boosting local tourism and community ties
The festival also adds an economic boost to Arlington, a city best known for its stadiums and sports. Attractions like Pumpkin Nights give families a reason to visit outside of game days.
“Not everyone is here for football or baseball,” said Kendra James, a University of Texas at Arlington student volunteering at the festival. “Pumpkin Nights gives locals and visitors another way to experience the city.”
James and her group help manage parking and greet guests, a behind-the-scenes effort that makes the event possible.
“It’s fun, but it also shows how much work goes into hosting something at this scale,” she said.
Seasonal traditions rooted in connection
Pumpkin Nights has steadily grown in popularity, fueled in part by social media posts of glowing tunnels and photo-worthy displays. But for many, the draw isn’t just pictures—it’s time together.
“In a world where everything is so fast paced, it’s nice to walk outside under the lights, hear kids laughing and just be present,” Kerr said.
The festival is scheduled to run through Oct. 31 with timed ticket entry to manage crowds.
For Lopez, Kerr and James, it has become more than just an event. It’s a way to welcome the season and reconnect with community.
“It reminds you that fall in Texas can be magical,” Lopez said. “Even if the weather doesn’t always cooperate.”
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