Jack-o-lanterns return to Roger Williams Park Zoo

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- The fall season is upon us, and local artists are gearing up for a unique display that brings patrons from around the country to Providence every year.

The Roger Williams Park Zoo will soon be lined with thousands of meticulously-carved pumpkins for the 25th Annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular.

Some of the area's most creative carvers are gearing up to put their crafts on display.

"You'll spend anywhere between two and 28 hours working on a pumpkin, from the initial conceptualization of it to the completed project," said carver George Nickolopolulos.

Starting Thursday night, 5,000 pumpkins will be lit and scattered throughout the zoo for onlookers to enjoy.

Unlike other works of art, the jack-o-lanterns come with an expiration date, so carvers are constantly updating the supply.

"You watch your artwork, and your time and your process slowly melt away," added Nickolopoulos. "But there's something wonderful about that too at the same time, because there's always a need to create more."

The unique display draws crowds from around the country to the month-long fundraiser event.

Last year, more than 100,000 people attended.

"It has got national recognition, that's how unusual it is," said Roger Williams Park Zoo Director of Marketing and PR Jan Mariani. "Folks from all over the country plan their trips to Providence so that they can come and see the show. Hopefully Rhode Islanders are proud of the show."

Even if you been to the event before, you're in for a new treat every year. This year's theme is "All the World's a Stage", featuring iconic scenes from the stage and screen.

The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is open nightly beginning Thursday, and runs through November 3.

For tickets and more information, visit Roger Williams Park Zoo's website .

Also, be sure to check out our contests page to enter to win the Ultimate VIP Experience at the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular , which includes express entry to the trail and VIP parking.