For a spooky spectacle like none other, venture to Central Park’s beloved Pumpkin Flotilla along the Harlem Meer.
Every year, Halloween enthusiasts sculpt a Jack O’Lantern to perfection before placing it atop of a floating procession along the water. The glowing pumpkin fleet is one of NYC’s most Instagrammable celebrations, joining the ranks of the Tompkins Square Park Dog Parade and the Village Halloween Parade.
If you’re ready to show off your skills and indulge in some seasonal fun, it’s time to head uptown.
2025 Pumpkin Flotilla details
Make sure to arrive to the event with your carved pumpkin in tow, as pumpkins will not be given away for the flotilla display once the sun goes down. A few things to note if you’re feeling crafty and want to participate in the flotilla itself:
- Don’t bring mini or extra-large pumpkins
- Don’t bring pumpkins with artificial decorations
- Don’t bring light bulbs, candles, or floats
Once on the grounds, there’s plenty to enjoy before the Jack-O’Lanterns set the Harlem Meer aglow — music from Nice Brass, lantern crafts alongside El Museo del Barrio, storytime courtesy of the New York Public Library, and a costume parade led by Anne Cubberly’s giant puppets. (Of course, you and your little ghosts and goblins are encouraged to come in costume.)
As the sun begins to set, the pumpkins will hit the water around 6pm. Make sure your phone is charged — you won’t want to miss capturing this scene.
The family-friendly event is free — though the park asks you to sign up online.
When all is said and done, retrieve your Jack-O’Lantern from the Harlem Meer beach near Fifth Avenue and East 108th Street so that it could grace your stoop for Friday trick-or-treating.
🗓️ Thursday, October 30th
📍 Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, Central Park
⏰ 4pm