Bumper Pumpkin Harvest at Eden Project Sets the Stage for a Spook-tacular Halloween

This Halloween, visitors to the Eden Project in Cornwall are in for a treat as over 500 pumpkins create a spellbinding display in the Myth and Folklore area of the Outdoor Gardens. The pumpkins, which have been grown as part of a therapeutic horticulture programme, are ready to greet visitors during the October half term, from October 26th to November 3rd.

A Unique Pumpkin Display

More than 580 pumpkins have been harvested, thanks to participants of the Eden Project’s therapeutic horticulture programme. This programme focuses on improving mental and physical wellbeing by connecting people with nature and teaching new skills. The display, set against the lush backdrop of the Outdoor Gardens, is located near the Eve sculpture and an enchanting labyrinth.

The pumpkins were gathered with the help of the Defence Gardens Scheme, which provides nature-based therapy for veterans from the armed forces community. Kate Francis, live producer at the Eden Project, highlighted the special atmosphere of the Outdoor Gardens at this time of year, noting that it’s a perfect setting for the pumpkin display.

“The beautiful setting and powerful aura of the garden makes it the perfect location for our pumpkin display. It’s been wonderful to work alongside the Therapy Garden and Defence Gardens Scheme to bring this display to our visitors and we hope it helps to get them into the spirit this Halloween,” said Kate.

After the half-term programme, the pumpkins will be returned to the participants who grew them for repurposing.

📷Photographs by Emily Whitfield-Wicks Myths & Folklore. Eden Project. Eden Live Team - L-R Lucy Freeman and Ashley Duncombe.

Halloweden Activities

In addition to the pumpkin display, visitors can dive into a range of Halloween-themed activities during the Halloweden programme. From October 26 to November 3, the Eden Project will host an array of family-friendly events.

Among the activities are magnificent minibeast shows, a mega-beast safari, and a marvellous bug fair. Visitors can encounter real-life bugs from around the world, including Chilean tarantulas, giant African snails, and Asian forest scorpions, courtesy of ethical educators ZooLab.

The bug fair will feature a variety of quirky activities such as slimy snail racing, sticky spider slingshots, and tiny bug-themed crafts.

For those feeling brave, the Rainforest Biome will host a mega-beast safari, where explorers can follow a trail through a magical world filled with larger-than-life critter sculptures by Studio ROOF. These sculptures bring to life some of the Earth’s most fascinating creatures hidden within the jungle canopy.

Ice Skating At The Eden Project Returns

Alongside the spooky fun of Halloweden, the Eden Project’s popular ice rink will also return for the October half term. Guests can skate in a magical setting, adding to the festive atmosphere.

For more details on Halloweden and to book tickets online for the best price, visit the Eden Project’s website.

📷Photographs by Emily Whitfield-Wicks Myths & Folklore. Eden Project.