Fall nights don’t get more magical than this: on Thursday, October 22, the Atlanta Botanical Garden turns its glowing grounds into a celebration of gourds, creativity, and community at the Great Pumpkin-Carving Festival, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
The star of the evening is the pumpkin carving competition. Atlanta’s most talented amateur carvers will transform pumpkins into jaw-dropping works of art, and you get to help crown the winner — vote for your favorite to decide the Fan Favorite award. Pumpkin Carving Awards are announced at 8:30 p.m.
The fun starts earlier with the Scarecrows in the Garden awards at 6:30 p.m., honoring this year’s most imaginative scarecrows still on display throughout the Garden.
Live music fills three stages: smooth yacht rock with the Clay Duke Trio in Levy Parterre, Americana, blues, country, and rock from Mandi Strachota and her 7-piece band on the Great Lawn Garden’s hay-lined dance floor, and lively bluegrass from The Surly Trolls at Skyline Robinson Gazebo, along the pumpkin-lined Flower Walk.
There’s more fall fun for everyone: a nostalgic classic movie under the stars in the Rose Garden (hay bales included), pumpkin-inspired crafts for kids and kids at heart, and seasonal food and cocktails available for purchase throughout the evening. Cash bars are card-only.
Tickets are required for all guests and members, available online and at the door while supplies last. Prices range from $10 to $65 per person. Bring your friends, bring your family, and don’t forget your camera — this is the Garden’s most photographed night of the season.
Photo: Atlanta Botanical Garden
