Pumpkinmania 2026

PumpkinMania is back for its 16th 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.
For nearly 250 years, Transylvania University has been part of Lexington’s story, and PumpkinMania is one way we continue that tradition by bringing generations of Pioneers and the broader Lexington community together. With family-friendly activities, creativity, and plenty of fall fun, PumpkinMania celebrates Transy’s past while creating new memories for the students, families, alumni, and future Pioneers who make our community special.
The Halloween spirit continues into the evening with Transylvania’s Spooktacular Concert. At 5 p.m. on Oct. 25, the Transylvania Choir, along with the Paul Lawrence Dunbar and Martha Lane Collins High School choirs will take the stage in Haggin Auditorium at the Mitchell Fine Arts Center for an evening of music and Halloween fun. It’s the perfect way to extend the PumpkinMania celebration and make a full day of fall festivities at Transy.
Pumpkin reservations open: Oct. 1 (reservations close when sold out...on the day of the event all unclaimed and extra pumpkins will be first-come, first-served)
PumpkinMania Festival: Sunday, Oct. 25 — pumpkin carving, games, food trucks and activities for all ages. Part of Family Weekend.
Jack-o’-lantern display: Every night Oct. 25-29
Sponsored by Kentucky Event Co, Bim Group, Forcht Bank, University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union, L Young, Equity Solutions Group and Black Soil KY.