Pumpkins at Callaway

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there’s no better way to celebrate the fall season than a trip to Callaway Gardens. Nestled in the heart of Georgia, this stunning destination transforms into a wonderland during the autumn months, showcasing its gardens during the day and the “glow by night” activities. Here’s a guide to making the most of your visit!

The family-favorite Pumpkins at Callaway takes place on weekends through November 2. During this event, you can explore a 2,500-acre harvest haven featuring the Garden of Giants packed with some of Georgia’s biggest pumpkins, discover fields of sunflowers, find your way through Cason’s Corn Maze, and relax with fall-inspired refreshments in family-friendly Cason’s Beer & Wine Garden. By night, discover a whimsical wonderland of glow growing even brighter with the Harvest Sky and Foggy Hollow, an enchanting garden brimming with fog-filled bubbles and delightful holographic displays of your favorite woodland critters.

Activity Cheat Sheet

Large Tent (to the right when you enter from the parking area): Storytime with Spookly, Face Painting, Shopping, Souvenirs (Spookly shirts, pumpkin necklaces, glowing swords, etc.), Pumpkin Emporium (seasonal sweet treats)

Area between the Tent and Robin Lake Beach: Walking Trail with Foggy Hollow, Mini-Golf (glows at night), Playground, Food Trucks, Shaved Ice, Pumpkin Cafe, Pumpkin Tree

Trolley Ride to Cason’s Gardens: Autumn Sky, Sunflower Fields, Corn Maze, Cason’s Beer Garden, Food Stands, Small Souvenir Shop

Gardens by Day

Make a day trip from your journey to Pumpins at Callaway and start by exploring the gardens. The garden features the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, a butterfly conservatory with over 1,000 butterflies fluttering around. You also don’t want to miss the beautiful Ida Cason Callaway Chapel. With daily raptor shows, the Callaway Discovery Center, bike and hiking trails, zip lines, and a playground, you will definitely find plenty of activities to keep your family busy!

Must-See Highlights

1. Pumpkin Pathway: Follow the winding pathways lined with pumpkins, perfect for photo ops. Be sure to capture those vibrant fall colors against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens.
2. Children’s Activities: If you’re visiting with little ones, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities, including Storytime with Spookly, face painting, and a small playground next to the Robin Lake Beach. It’s a delightful way to engage the younger crowd and create lasting memories. *Storytime with Spookly and face painting are found in the large tent!

Glow by Night

As the sun sets and the stars twinkle above, it’s time for the magic of “Glow by Night” to begin. The gardens come alive with stunning light displays illuminating the pathways and creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Highlights of Pumpkins at Callaway

1. 1. Illuminated Pumpkin Displays: Watch as the pumpkins are transformed into glowing works of art. Each carved pumpkin tells its own story, and the illuminated displays are sure to leave you in awe. Be sure to walk through the trail next to the Mini Golf area to see lots of creatures made from pumpkins and the Foggy Hollow Trail (this has a spooky feeling, but definitely not scary for the little ones!)
   2. Lighted Pathways: Wander along the softly lit paths adorned with glowing orbs and twinkling lights. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic stroll or a peaceful moment of reflection.

      

1. Live Entertainment: Many nights feature live music and performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. Check the schedule ahead of time to catch local artists and bands. Be sure to also check out the pumpkin tree between the Pumpkin Cafe and the Robin Lake Beach area!
2. Delicious Seasonal Treats: Don’t forget to indulge in some seasonal goodies! From warm apple cider to pumpkin-flavored treats, the food stalls offer a delightful taste of autumn. Treat stands are located throughout the park! There is a Pumpkin Emporium and some vendor booths in the large green tent – this is where the Storytime with Spookly is! The Pumpkin Cafe features quick grab-and-go dinner options with lots of picnic tables!
3. Corn Maze and Sunflower Fields: Hop on the trolley to explore the Corn Maze and the Sunflower Fields – the Harvest Sky and Cason’s Beer Garden are also in this area! There are some food options here and a small store where you can get glowing swords and pumpkin necklaces!

Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive Early: To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the day. This allows you to explore the gardens and attend Pumpkins at Callaway when it opens for the day! We entered the event when it opened, and we were able to explore everything in the daytime and at night – two different experiences with one trip! Be sure to do the Corn Maze in the day and at night! 
• Dress for the Weather: Fall evenings can get chilly, so be sure to dress in layers and bring a light jacket to stay comfortable as you enjoy the night as temperatures start dropping. If you have little ones, also bring a stroller – the Pumkins at Callaway area is very stroller friendly!
• Plan your Trip: There is plenty to do at Callaway, so definitely plan what you want to do. There are many dining options so that you can spend the whole day! Consider spending the night at the Lodge or in one of the cottages!

   

  

  

  

  

A trip to Callaway Gardens for Pumpkins at Callaway is a wonderful way to embrace the beauty of fall. This seasonal event offers something for everyone and is very family-friendly. So pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready for a magical day and night at Callaway Gardens!

Tickets can be purchased here or at the gate!