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Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular 2026

Journey through a wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life Pumpkins from around the world.

  • Event Dates

    From: Awaiting dates
    To: Awaiting dates

  • Key Highlights

    • Cuisine and Drinks
    • World of Dinosaurs
    • Larger-Than-Life Insects
    • Glittering Sea Creatures
    • Handcrafted Keepsakes
    • Glowing Lantern Displays

The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular 2026

Take a trip around the world at this year’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular: Pumpkins Around the World, an enchanting multicultural experience to delight all ages!

  • Visiting Providence? Stay at the Graduate, a 4 star hotel with charming rooms, modern gym and perfect location, close to all the city's gay attractions.

The Event

  • Next Edition: Awaiting dates, Typically late September to early November.
  • Pumpkin trail is open nightly from 6 – 10:30 pm, last entry at 10 pm.
  • Thousands of artistically carved pumpkins illuminate the night during this walk-through spectacular.
  • Be magically transported on a European vacation, wildlife safari, and a trip down Route 66!
  • From the Pyramids of Giza to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, this spooktacular family event will satisfy your case of wanderlust – no passports required!

The Venue

  • Providence Zoo’s Soaring Eagle Zip Ride will also be open, allowing guests the chance to witness this spectacle of dazzling lights from 115 feet high.
  • The Zoo covers about 40 acres. The path through the Zoo is a little more than one-mile long. The lanterns are dotted across the zoo.
  • Providence Zoo is approximately 11 minutes drive from downtown.

Where to stay in Providence?

  • After your visit, hit the streets of downtown Providence for an eclectic night on the town with a wide range of gay and gay friendly bars and clubs hosting popular theme nights and events throughout the Spring and Summer.

The following hotels are close to the city's top attractions and a short ride from the zoo:

Hotel ProvidenceGraduate ProvidenceHampton Inn & SuitesResidence Inn Providence

Gay Map of PROVIDENCE

Address: 139 Mathewson Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Hotel Providence is a boutique hotel in downtown, combining historic charm with modern amenities.
  • It offers luxurious rooms and personalized service.
  • Ideally located near key attractions, it's perfect for business and leisure travelers. Website

Address: 11 Dorrance Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Graduate Providence is a charming boutique hotel in downtown, offering a blend of historic elegance and modern amenities.
  • With on-site dining, a 24-hour fitness center, and pet-friendly policies, it provides a comfortable and convenient stay.
  • Its central location makes it a great choice for visitors to Providence.
  • Website

Address: 100 Sabin St, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Residence Inn Providence Downtown offers spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for extended stays.
  • Guests enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, and convenient business services.
  • Its central location makes it a great choice for both business and leisure travelers. Website

Address: 58 Weybosset Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities in a historic building.
  • Guests enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, and a prime location near attractions like Brown University.
  • It’s an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.
  • Website

Address: 25 Bridge Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • The Hot Club in Providence is a popular LGBTQ+ friendly waterfront bar offering scenic views, a lively atmosphere, and regular events like karaoke and trivia.
  • The friendly staff and diverse menu make it a welcoming spot for everyone.
  • It’s a great place to relax, socialize, and enjoy drinks by the river.
  • Open: Daily 12pm-1am,Friday & Saturday 12pm-2am
  • Facebook

Address: 125 Washington Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • The Stable is a lively LGBTQ+ bar in downtown Providence, known for its inclusive atmosphere and equestrian-themed decor.
  • It offers regular events like drag shows, karaoke, and Sangria Sundays, along with a popular outdoor patio.
  • With signature cocktails and a welcoming vibe, it's a great spot for socializing and entertainment.
  • Open: Daily 12pm-1am,Friday & Saturday 12pm-2am
  • Facebook

Address: 17 Snow Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Alley Cat in Providence is a vibrant LGBTQ+ bar known for its inclusive atmosphere and eclectic decor.
  • It offers regular entertainment like drag shows and karaoke, along with well-crafted cocktails.
  • Located in the heart of Providence’s nightlife district, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
  • Open: Daily 7pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 4pm-3am
    Sunday 3pm-1am
  • Facebook

Address: 73 Richmond Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • EGO Providence is a vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub offering an energetic atmosphere with drag shows, themed parties, and inclusive events.
  • The venue attracts a diverse crowd, making it a popular spot for nightlife in Providence.
  • It’s the perfect place for an exciting and welcoming experience.
  • Open: Daily 9pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 10pm-3am 
    (Closed Monday & Wednesday)
  • Facebook

Address: 15 Elbow Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Mirabar is a historic LGBTQ+ nightclub in Providence, offering a vibrant mix of drag shows, karaoke, and themed events.
  • Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it attracts a diverse crowd looking for fun and inclusivity.
  • With its strong community ties, Mirabar remains a popular and iconic venue in the city's LGBTQ+ scene.
  • Open: Daily 3pm-1am, Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 2pm-3am
    Sunday 1pm-1am
  • Facebook

Address: 121 Washington St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

  • The VU Lounge & Speakeasy PVD is a vibrant LGBTQ+ bar in Providence known for its inclusive atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails.
  • With regular drag shows, themed nights, and live music, it offers exciting entertainment for all.
  • Located in the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, it’s a must-visit spot for a fun night out.
  • Open: Tuesday & Thursday 7pm–1am, Friday & Saturday 11pm–2am
    Sunday 5pm–1am Closed Monday & Wednesday) 
  • Facebook

Address: 19 Snow Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • The Dark Lady in Providence is a popular LGBTQ+ bar known for its lively atmosphere and performances, including drag shows, karaoke nights, and go-go dancers.
  • With a welcoming, inclusive vibe, it attracts a diverse crowd looking for fun and entertainment.
  • It's a must-visit spot in the city’s LGBTQ+ scene.
  • Open: Daily 9pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 9pm-3am
    (Closed Monday Tuesday)
  • Facebook

Address: 124 Snow Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

  • Providence Eagle is a popular LGBTQ+ bar known for its vibrant atmosphere, leather-themed décor, and inclusive environment.
  • It hosts a variety of events like drag shows and themed parties, making it a key spot in the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife.
  • With friendly staff and a welcoming vibe.
  • Open: Daily 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am Saturday 12pm-2am,
    Sunday 12pm-1am
  • Facebook

Recommended Hotels in Providence By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Providence that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars

Hotel Providence
4 Star, Luxury

Hotel Providence
Booking.com
  • 4 Star – Arts and Entertainment District, Artistic Atmosphere
  • Close to the gay district
  • Free Wi-Fi, iPod dock, novels
  • In downtown Providence, offers artistic atmosphere, free Wi-Fi, rooms with classic novels, iPod docks, and art.

Graduate Providence
4 Star, Readers Choice

Graduate Providence
Booking.com
  • 4 Star – 40″ Flat-Screen TV, Private Bathroom
  • Close to the gay district
  • Flat-screen TV, free toiletries
  • Features 40″ TVs, private bathrooms with free toiletries, hairdryers, breakfast and lunch options at Poindexter Coffee.

Hampton Inn & Suites
3 Star, Great Value

Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown
Booking.com
  • 3 Star – High-Speed Internet, Cloud Nine Beds
  • Close to the gay district
  • Coffeemakers, fitness center
  • Provides guestrooms with high-speed internet, in-room coffeemakers, Cloud Nine beds, fitness center, and free breakfast.

Residence Inn
3 Star, Location

Booking.com
  • 3 Star – Air-Conditioned Rooms, Continental Breakfast
  • Close to the gay district
  • Desk, coffee machine, microwave
  • Air-conditioned rooms with desks, coffee machines, microwaves, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.

Video Of The Lantern Spectacular

Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Zoo Park

Graduate Hotel Providence

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