Looking for a spectacular family-friendly Halloween event in Edinburgh this October? Pumpkins After Dark is bringing thousands of illuminated, hand-carved pumpkins to the Royal Highland Centre for a glowing Halloween experience the whole family can enjoy.
Running from 9–31 October 2026, the outdoor event transforms the Royal Highland Centre at Ingliston into a magical after-dark trail filled with pumpkins, Halloween displays and autumn fun.
Thousands of glowing pumpkins
The big attraction is, of course, the pumpkins!
Families can wander through spectacular displays featuring thousands of hand-carved pumpkins illuminated after dark, with themed scenes celebrating Halloween, folklore and autumn.
There are plenty of opportunities to stop for family photos along the way, making this a particularly fun October night out with the kids.
Family-friendly Halloween fun – without the jump scares
If your children love Halloween but aren’t quite so keen on being frightened, Pumpkins After Dark could be a great alternative to some of Scotland’s scarier Halloween attractions.
The organisers describe the Edinburgh experience as family friendly for all ages, with no jump scares.
That means families can enjoy the atmosphere, lights and Halloween displays without worrying about actors suddenly leaping out from behind a pumpkin!
Watch pumpkins being carved
Visitors can also see live pumpkin-carving demonstrations, offering the chance to watch talented carvers turn pumpkins into intricate creations.
There will also be seasonal food, treats and sweet delights available, so you can make a full autumn evening of your visit.
When is Pumpkins After Dark Edinburgh?
Pumpkins After Dark Edinburgh runs from:
9 October – 31 October 2026
Entry is through timed ticket slots and availability is limited, so families planning to visit may want to book ahead, particularly for weekends and dates closer to Halloween.
Where is it?
Royal Highland Centre
Ingliston
Edinburgh
EH28 8NB
The Royal Highland Centre is situated close to Edinburgh Airport and there is an option to pre-book parking for the event.
Is Pumpkins After Dark suitable for young children?
Yes. The event has been designed as a family-friendly Halloween experience and the organisers specifically state that there are no jump scares.
It’s therefore worth considering for younger children who enjoy pumpkins, lights and Halloween but might find traditional haunted attractions too frightening.
A Halloween night out in Edinburgh
With thousands of illuminated pumpkins, live carving, seasonal treats and plenty of opportunities for Halloween family photos, Pumpkins After Dark looks set to be one of Edinburgh’s most eye-catching family Halloween events this October.
And with the event running right through until Halloween night on 31 October, families have plenty of opportunities to experience the glowing pumpkin trail.
🎃 Pumpkins After Dark Edinburgh
📅 Dates: 9–31 October 2026
📍 Where: Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8NB
👨👩👧👦 Suitable for: Families and Halloween fans of all ages
🎃 Highlights: Thousands of hand-carved pumpkins, illuminated displays, live pumpkin carving, seasonal treats and photo opportunities
👻 Scare factor: Family friendly with no jump scares
Tickets and further information
