Get ready for a one-of-a-kind Halloween experience at the Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla held annually at Harlem Meer in Central Park. This celebrated New York City event is a storied tradition with a rich history dating back to its start in the early 1990s. The Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla welcomes members of the community to participate with their own carved pumpkins, which are set afloat on the water for an exciting pumpkin parade. This family-friendly event is a perfect way to celebrate the spooky season and show off your creativity. Mark your calendars!
The History of the Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla
The Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla has been a cherished NYC event for over 30 years. It was originally called the “Pumpkin Sail” because the pumpkins set sail on the water. However, that caused some confusion as people thought pumpkins were “for sale.” Oops! Therefore, a new name emerged - the “flotilla” is known as a formation of ships. Pumpkin-esque ships in this case. Every year, jack-o-lanterns are carved and donated by community members.
This festive celebration is currently held in Central Park at Harlem Meer and has been since 1993. It was originally hosted at the Pool but moved to celebrate the grand opening of the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center. Now that it’s been changed to a flotilla, the glowing jack-o-lanterns are pulled behind a kayak paddled by a wicked witch or a pirate. It’s an exciting sight to see!
What to Expect at the 2024 Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla
If you want your pumpkin to be selected to float in the Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla, here are some tips:
- Pumpkins should be approximately eight pounds after you have carved them, about the size of a soccer ball.
- Don’t use any unnatural decorations such as paint, glitter, makers, etc.
- Arrive at the pumpkin drop-off between 4:00 pm and 5:30 pm at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center.
- Spots are limited, and it’s on a first-come, first-served basis, so we recommend arriving early.
The rest of the schedule is as follows:
- Not-so-spooky story time for the littles hosted by the New York Public Library from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
- Hair-raising magic with Rogue the Magician from 5:15 pm to 5:45 pm.
- Halloween Dance Party with DJ Dao from 5:45 pm to 7:00 pm.
- PUMPKIN FLOTILLA from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
For a spectacular event to get into the spirit of the spooky season, don’t miss Harlem’s Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla! And for all your upcoming event planning needs, the pros at EMRG Media are here to help. Whether you’re planning a milestone celebration for family and friends or a corporate event for co-workers, we are NYC’s trusted event planning professionals. Contact us today!
