11,000 lbs. of giant pumpkins delivered to Jack O’Lantern World in Lake Zurich

The world’s largest shipment of giant 1,000-plus pound pumpkins has arrived at Jack O’Lantern World in Lake Zurich, weighing over 11,000 pounds combined.

The shipment includes one of the world’s largest pumpkins weighed this year — a massive 2,212-pound pumpkin brought all the way from Kansas.

Each giant pumpkin comes from a different specialty grower from all across the Midwest. These pumpkins will be carved into some of the world’s largest jack-o’-lanterns. Jack O’Lantern World is the largest collector of 1,000-plus pound pumpkins.

The giants are part of an experience featuring more than 5,000 real hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns throughout October.

Visitors can explore a three-quarter-mile walking trail filled with art by over 50 artisan carvers, watch live pumpkin carving, and enjoy fall activities, as well as the beer garden with Phase Three Brewing Co. and food trucks Speedy Tacos and My Funnel Truck. One of this year’s highlights is the U.S. National Championship Pumpkin Weigh Off.

Jack O’Lantern World opens Thursday, Oct. 1 and runs through Nov. 1 at Paulus Park in Lake Zurich. Park in the west lot only at 215 S. Rand Road. The east lot is only for accessible parking for seniors or expectant mothers. Use the cross walk to cross Route 12.

There is also a daytime pumpkin patch and fun zone festival designed for families. Check out the pop-up style pumpkin patch packed with photo ops, the food and beer garden, mini golf and giant inflatables. One ticket gets you access to everything. It will be offered from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 10-24.

Tickets are $14.99 to $29.99. To sign up for a slot, visit TheJackOLanternWorld.com. Lights turn off one hour after last entry time.