For families with younger children, there is an unmet need for ways to celebrate the spooky season that are merry and magical instead of macabre. This was the inspiration behind the Third Annual Pumpkin Passage presented by Nature’s Art Village in Oakdale, CT.
The Pumpkin Passage offers “lights, not frights”, on a half-mile trail decorated with jack-o-lanterns, dinosaurs, dragons, unicorns, witches, ghosts, vampires, skeletons, and the largest spider web in New England.
Inside The Pumpkin Passage Trail
The Pumpkin Passage trail concludes with a bounce house, giant slide, child-friendly axe throwing, and an inflatable corn maze. Treats include hot apple cider and marshmallows. In addition, performers treat guests to hula hoop and fire shows.
The Pumpkin Passage is a delightful way to celebrate Halloween for all ages. The trail provides the ideal festive background for many Instagram-worthy photos of your family’s night out. This is demonstrated by Harper, Rosie, Jude, and Jasper posing by the scarecrow in the image below.
A Personal Tour Through the Passage
Our personal guided tour of the Pumpkin Passage was led by Roger Phillips, owner of Nature’s Art Village. He is also the mind and hands behind each one of the custom-made displays. Despite the continued success and constant growth of Nature’s Art Village, Mr. Phillips is still as passionate and involved as ever.
He greeted every guest warmly and each staff member by name while revealing the history and significance of the exhibits. In fact, Roger explained that he has taken a hands-on approach to all of the attractions built in the 60-acre outdoor adventure park since he bought the destination in 1992.
The Dinosaur Place, one of Nature’s Art Village’s main attractions, features 1.5 miles of outdoor trails with 50 life-sized dinosaurs, New England’s largest SplashPad, a dinosaur-themed maze, playground, train rides, pedal cars, and two mini-golf courses.
Indoor activities include the Discovery Depot activity center and the Genius Museum showcasing 200 years of American trades and innovations. The Shops at Nature’s Art Village and The PAST Antiques Marketplace offer jewelry and fossils from around the world, educational toys, and antiques, crafts, and collectibles from local vendors.
Additional Information & Resources
The Pumpkin Passage is open throughout October on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a special event on October 30th.
Tickets are available online only through Eventbrite for the annual Trick or Treat night featuring multiple bounce houses, games, toasty marshmallows, a food truck, and of course, lots of candy for costumed guests.
Trick or Treat night will take place from 5-9pm.
