Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze: Hudson Valley Returns With A Mystery And A Secret Speakeasy For 2025

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — The Hudson Valley is the quintessential Halloween destination, and the ultimate way to celebrate the season is about to kick off.

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze: Hudson Valley returns to Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson for the 21st year, and Historic Hudson Valley promises it is "completely reimagined."

Like in previous years, the Blaze will feature 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.

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This year, there will be several new pumpkin displays, including "intricate carvings of New York State landmarks, eye-popping classic video game icons, and a whimsical hillside Wizard of Oz scene that goes far beyond the rainbow."

Visitors will have the chance to experience the wildly popular VIP speakeasy along the pumpkin trail, "The Gourd & Goblet Tavern," set in an 18th-century inn, which will require a separate ticketed admission. It includes table service with delicious snacks, cocktails, and mocktails. The Tavern experience is recommended for ages 18+.

The Headless Horseman's Hideaway is a "spirited" stop on the pumpkin trail that includes a choice of a small snack, cocktails, and mocktails. Photo-ops with the Headless Horseman are included in this separately ticketed VIP experience.

Historic Hudson Valley says it's all part of a full roster of Legend of Sleepy Hollow-themed events.

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. Snacks and drinks, including local wine and beer, will be available to purchase.

At Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow, "The Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country: A Night of Legendary Magic" will return this year. 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. Snacks and drinks, including local wine and beer, will be available to purchase. Premium tickets include a complimentary beverage and cabaret-style seating. New matinee performances have been added this year by popular demand.

Debuting this year is The Headless Horseman Files: An Immersive Sleepy Hollow Whodunit, a daytime theatrical mystery walk where visitors will have the chance to gather clues and find out what really happened to Ichabod Crane. On this 45-minute walk through the historic grounds of Sleepy Hollow's Philipsburg Manor, visitors will encounter "suspicious townsfolk," each with their own tale and motive for causing the demise of Crane. Visitors will be able to work together to mine the clues and decide who they think the Headless Horseman really is.

After dark, Twilight Village at Sleepy Hollow has undergone a major transformation as it takes over Philipsburg Manor in the heart of Sleepy Hollow. The "atmospheric outdoor experience" will have fire performers, storytellers, a pop-up market, and a "dramatic" sound-and-light show recreating the Horseman’s midnight ride.

All events will be held rain or shine.

Blaze: Hudson Valley dates are September 12-14, 19-21, 24-30; October 1-31; November 1-2, 7-9, 14-16. Standard admission online tickets start at $24. Children 2 and under attend for free. Entry to The Gourd & Goblet Tavern and The Headless Horseman’s Hideaway require separate tickets. FLEX and FLEX PLUS tickets provide the ultimate access with no reservations required. Historic Hudson Valley members can access free standard admission tickets.

The Headless Horseman Files: An Immersive Sleepy Hollow Whodunit dates are Oct. 3-5, 10-13, 17-19, 24-26, 31-Nov. 1. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for children (3-17), and free for children 2 and under. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount.

The Spirits of Sleepy Hollow Country: A Night of Legendary Magic dates are Oct. 3-5, 10-13, 17-19, 24-26, 31-Nov. 1. Tickets start at $65 and Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount.

Twilight Village at Sleepy Hollow dates are Oct. 3-5, 10-13, 17-19, 24-26, 31-Nov. 1. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for children (3-17), and free for children 2 and under. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount on tickets.

Irving’s 'Legend' dates are Oct. 3-5, 10-13, 17-19, 24-26, 31-Nov. 1. Tickets start at $45 for adults and $40 for children (3-17). Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount on tickets.

Legendary Tours of Washington Irving’s Sunnyside dates September 12-14, 19-21, Oct. 3-5, 10-13, 17-19, 24-26, 31-Nov 2, Nov 7-9. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and young adults; $16 for children (3-17), and free for those 2 and under. Historic Hudson Valley members receive a 15 percent discount discount on tickets.

Buy tickets online here.

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

Blaze: Hudson Valley is presented by Con Edison. Contributing Sponsors include JPMorgan Chase and Northwell Phelps Hospital. Hospitality Partners are Windrose on Hudson, Tarrytown House Estate, and The Abbey Inn & Spa. Beverage Sponsors include Captain Lawrence and Hudson North Cider Co. Media Sponsors are WHUD and The Peak.

Van Cortlandt Manor is located at 525 South Riverside Avenue, just off Route 9 in Croton-on-Hudson.

Philipsburg Manor is located at 381 North Broadway in Sleepy Hollow.

Sunnyside is on West Sunnyside Lane, off Route 9 in Tarrytown.