Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze: Hudson Valley Returns In September

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze: Hudson Valley returns to its location at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson for the 19th year, and Historic Hudson Valley promises it will be bigger than ever.

Every year it features illuminated, individually hand-carved jack o’ lanterns in elaborate displays which are professionally lit throughout the landscape of Van Cortlandt Manor in various themed areas.

This year, favorite installations such as the Statue of Liberty and the Pumpkin Planetarium will be joined by new creations like a pumpkin Ferris wheel and a circus sideshow, carved by a small team of Historic Hudson Valley staff and local artists led by Creative Director Michael Natiello.

It's part of a full roster of Legend of Sleepy Hollow-themed events. That includes a brand-new event at Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow called "The Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country: A Night of Legendary Magic." Mark Clearview and Nick Wallace, master illusionists, will take visitors on a supernatural journey, conjuring the spirits of Sleepy Hollow lore, including Hulda, Major Andre, and the Headless Horseman, for a night of mystery and fun. The event takes place in the Dutch barn on the 18th-century property.

At the estate of Washington Irving, America’s founding father of literature, Historic Hudson Valley is bringing his classic spooky tale to life.

Daytime visitors can tour Irving’s home Sunnyside, take in an original shadow puppet film, and see a special Legend exhibit at Home of the ‘Legend.’ In the evenings, master storyteller Jonathan Kruk casts a spell with dramatic performances of Irving’s ‘Legend,’ performed outdoors under the stars. Complete with live music by Jim Keyes, this performance is sure to thrill audiences of all ages. A one-day event, Belinda’s Bewitching Tea Party, will treat visitors to spooky mocktails and festive snacks, along with a special opportunity to see the original doll from our collection and a brand-new toy based on the item.

All events are held rain or shine.

Blaze: Hudson Valley will again run for 54 nights — from Sept. 15 through Nov. 19. Blaze: Hudson Valley dates are Sept. 15-17, 22-24, 27-30; Oct. 1-31; Nov. 1-5, 8-12, 17-19. Online tickets start at $32 for adults and $24 for children 3-17, and are free for children 2 and under. Historic Hudson Valley members can attend for free.

Irving’s ‘Legend’ dates are Sept. 29-Oct. 1, 6-9, 13-15, 20-22, 27-31. Online tickets start at $35 for adults and $30 for children. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount on tickets.

Home of the ‘Legend’ dates are Sept. 15-17, 22-24, 29-31; Oct. 1; 6-9; 13-15; 20-22; 27-31 and Nov. 3-5. Online tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and children 3-17, and are free for those 2 and under. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount on tickets.

Belinda’s Bewitching Tea Party is on Sept. 16. Online tickets start at $35. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount.

Buy tickets online at www.hudsonvalley.org or by calling 914-366-6900 ($2.50 per ticket surcharge for phone orders).

Proceeds support Historic Hudson Valley, the Tarrytown-based private, non-profit educational organization that owns and operates several National Historic landmarks.

Blaze: Hudson Valley's Supporting Sponsor is Servpro of Peekskill, Ossining, and Contributing Sponsors are JPMorgan Chase and Captain Lawrence Brewing Company. Tarrytown House Estate is the Hospitality Partner.