Boston families have a wonderfully splashy way to celebrate Halloween this year. The New England Aquarium invites everyone to Sunken Pumpkins, a weekend-long fall celebration on Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 1 Central Wharf on the downtown waterfront.
The idea is simple and delightful: jack-o’-lanterns have been hidden — or “sunken” — throughout the Aquarium’s exhibits, and guests are challenged to find them all as they explore. Along the way, families can join a fall-themed animal scavenger hunt, see animal skulls and bones up close with Aquarium educators, and learn fun facts about the creatures that call the Giant Ocean Tank, the penguin colony and the shark and ray touch tank home.
Costumes are warmly encouraged, so children can tour the Aquarium in their Halloween best, and the Harbor View Café will be serving Halloween-themed treats to complete the festive mood. For the safety of the animals, costumes may not be inflatable or include balloons, lights, sharp objects or anything that resembles a weapon.
Best of all, Sunken Pumpkins is included with regular Aquarium admission on both days, making it an easy, joyful plan for a fall weekend in Boston. Happy City News recommends arriving early, bringing the whole family and keeping eyes peeled — you never know where the next pumpkin is hiding.
Photo: New England Aquarium
