Autumn at the Arboretum – Best Pumpkin Festival in USA

As the air gets crisper and leaves begin to don their vibrant hues, it’s time for a quintessential fall experience. In Dallas, one event stands out as the ultimate celebration of the season: Autumn at the Arboretum. This year, the 18th annual Autumn at the Arboretum presents a spectacular “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” theme, offering visitors a magical journey filled with 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash, sourced from the pumpkin capital of Texas, Floydada, and 150,000 enchanting fall-blooming plants that transform the garden into a vibrant wonderland.

• Where: The Dallas Arboretum
• When: September 18 – November 4
• Price: Varies based on event and age; discounts available
• Visit: Dallas Arboretum Website

Let’s embark on this whimsical adventure, exploring the highlights, recurring programs, entertainment, and the delightful fair that complements this fall festival.

A Journey Through the Festival

As you step into the enchanting world of Autumn at the Arboretum, you’ll be greeted by the beloved Peanuts Gang, setting the stage for a unique pumpkin festival. With themed pumpkin houses, a charming Pumpkin Village, and a delightful maze for younger visitors, the atmosphere is one of pure whimsy.

Recurring Programs and Special Days

While the main attractions are undoubtedly the stunning displays, Autumn at the Arboretum offers a wide array of recurring programs and special days to make your visit even more memorable.

• Member Mornings: Start your day with early access to the garden and enjoy its serene beauty. Take a leisurely stroll, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
• DeGolyer House Historical Tours: Delve into history with guided tours of the historic DeGolyer House. Knowledgeable docents share fascinating stories about the home and its legacy.
• Mommy and Me Mondays & Tiny Tot Tuesdays: Family-friendly fun takes center stage with petting zoos, story time, and Kindermusik sessions, ensuring a delightful day for your little ones.
• BOGO Wednesdays: Make your visit budget-friendly with “Buy one, get one free” Wednesdays. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the festival at a great price.

• CC Young Senior Living Thursdays: Seniors aged 65 and older can enjoy discounted admission and take advantage of a 20% discount in the Hoffman Family Gift Store.
• What’s in Bloom Walk: Join the horticulture team for a weekly walk featuring the top blooming plants, as recommended by Dave Forehand, the VP of Gardens.
• Tasteful Place: Explore the culinary side with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and exciting classes, ensuring you leave with a recipe or two up your sleeve.

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Fair and Marketplace

The Autumn at the Arboretum fair is a treasure trove of unique and handcrafted items. Explore the local vendor market and craft fair featuring an array of delectable treats and artisanal gifts.

From handmade jewelry to jams and jellies, there’s something to suit every taste.

In case you’ve overlooked something, keep in mind that Etsy is a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted items from various sellers. Don’t forget to take advantage of fantastic Etsy deals, including discounts of up to 50% on a diverse selection of gifts, all with the added perk of free shipping.

In the Autumn at the Arboretum marketplace, you’ll come across personalized t-shirts and a variety of other items. For a broader selection, visit Personalization Mall, where you can enjoy a 20% discount using the promo code BPCM.

Educational and Entertaining Programs

For those who seek more than a stroll in the garden, Autumn at the Arboretum offers a variety of classes and experiences.

• Guided Pumpkin Hike: Discover the unique and varied pumpkins that bring the festival to life during this educational hike.
• Dallas Gourd Patch: Watch spectacular squash art demos and consider purchasing beautiful gourd creations.
• Gourd Show and Sale: If you’re a fan of gourds, don’t miss the Gourd Show and Sale. These artistic gourds transformed into dazzling jewelry and houseware are a sight to behold.
• Memory Garden Fall Series: Join a series of classes for those in the early to middle stages of Dementia or Alzheimer’s. It’s an educational and supportive program sponsored by the AWARE Foundation and the Darrell K Royal Research Foundation.
• Window to the Wild: Enjoy a 45-minute outdoor educational flight training show with feathered friends who served as inspiration for famous children’s cartoon characters.
• Halloweekend: Experience a spooky and fun Halloween weekend with trick-or-treating, a petting zoo, live music, and much more.

Cooking and Tasting Events

Indulge your taste buds with a range of culinary experiences.

• Cassaro Wines: A private wine tasting event with the owner of Cassaro Winery and Vineyard. Enjoy award-winning wines and charcuterie boards.
• Energy Gardens: Learn to create your own succulent terrarium and gain insights on proper arrangement and care.
• Tasting with White Rock Alehouse & Brewery: Savor beer tastings paired with delicious salads.
• Cooking with Loro: Learn to make delectable dishes and salads in a fun and engaging cooking class.

• Tasting with Pegasus City Brewery: Enjoy tastings of original brews and learn the history behind each one.
• Dia de los Muertos With Diana Zamora: Join Chef Diana in making traditional Mexican sweet bread and Atole de elote.
• Adult Cooking Class with Asian Mint: Embark on a culinary journey exploring the flavors of Thailand.

Music and Entertainment

As you take in the surroundings, let live music serenade you. From pianists to guitarists, enjoy musical entertainment while you picnic in the garden. Select weekends feature local acts on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage & Lawn, offering a perfect family outing with scenic views of White Rock Lake.

Autumn at the Arboretum is more than a fall festival; it’s a magical journey into the heart of the season. With themed displays, educational programs, and entertaining events, it’s an experience that lingers in your heart and leaves you with cherished memories. Don’t forget to visit the marketplace for unique treasures, and if you missed something, remember that Etsy is a treasure trove of handmade items from vendors like LetterLounge and enjoy up to 50% off on a wide range of gifts with free shipping.