Lexington, Kentucky, October 28, 2025
Transylvania University hosted its annual PumpkinMania festival, celebrating 15 years with the theme ‘Carved in History.’ The event featured pumpkin carving, food trucks, live performances, and a stunning jack-o’-lantern display, attracting families and alumni. Set against the backdrop of the historic Old Morrison building, the festival underscored the university’s contribution to local culture and shared its legacy with the Lexington community.
Lexington, Kentucky – Transylvania University’s annual PumpkinMania festival returned on October 26, 2025, celebrating its 15th year with the theme “Carved in History.” The event highlighted the university’s nearly 250-year contribution to Lexington’s heritage and attracted families, alumni, students, and community members to participate in pumpkin carving and various activities.
Holding the festival on the lawn of Old Morrison, a National Historic Landmark, the carved jack-o’-lanterns were displayed on the steps and illuminated nightly from October 26 to 30. The festival offered food trucks, live performances, and activities suitable for all ages, reinforcing its status as a beloved fall tradition in Lexington.
Since its inception in 2011, PumpkinMania has evolved from a campus event to one of Lexington’s most notable fall traditions, even featuring on “Good Morning America” for its impressive visuals. Admission was free and open to the public, though those wishing to carve pumpkins were encouraged to reserve in advance due to limited availability.
This year’s theme, “Carved in History,” honored the accomplishments of alumni and recognized the ongoing contributions of current students to the university’s legacy. The festival’s success underscored its significance in celebrating local history and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is PumpkinMania?
PumpkinMania is an annual, family-friendly fall festival held at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. The event features pumpkin carving, a jack-o’-lantern display, food trucks, live entertainment, and various activities suitable for all ages. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the festival.
When and where is PumpkinMania 2025 taking place?
PumpkinMania 2025 is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Old Morrison building on the campus of Transylvania University, located at 300 North Broadway, Lexington, KY 40508.
Is there an admission fee for the event?
Admission to PumpkinMania is free and open to the public. While no reservation is required to attend the festival, reservations are encouraged for those wishing to carve pumpkins. Pumpkins are provided for carving but must be reserved in advance. Spots fill quickly, so early reservations are encouraged.
What is the theme for PumpkinMania 2025?
The theme for PumpkinMania 2025 is “Carved in History,” celebrating Transylvania University’s nearly 250-year role in shaping Lexington’s story. The steps of Old Morrison will glow with hundreds of carved pumpkins, creating a breathtaking display that honors the university’s legacy.
How can I reserve a pumpkin for carving?
To reserve a pumpkin for carving, visit Transylvania University’s official website. Pumpkins are provided for carving but must be reserved in advance. Spots fill quickly, so early reservations are encouraged.
Key Features of PumpkinMania 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Date and Time | Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. |
| Jack-o’-lantern Display | October 26–30, 2025, nightly |
| Location | Old Morrison, Transylvania University, 300 North Broadway, Lexington, KY 40508 |
| Admission | Free and open to the public; reservations encouraged for pumpkin carving |
| Theme | “Carved in History,” celebrating Transylvania University’s nearly 250-year role in Lexington’s story |
| Additional Activities | Food trucks, live entertainment, and various activities suitable for all ages |
Now Happening on X
- @LEX18News (October 24, 2025, 3:31 PM): Lexington Police are investigating a confirmed homicide on Lakebow Court following an incident on Friday. View on X
- @LEX18News (October 24, 2025, 10:15 PM): A juvenile arrived at a hospital with a gunshot wound just before 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, prompting a police investigation in Lexington. View on X
- @WKYT (October 25, 2025, 6:00 PM): An investigation is underway after human remains were discovered near a park in Lexington. View on X
- @WKYT (October 23, 2025, 9:07 AM): A deadly overnight crash in Lexington has led to the temporary closure of a road, which has now reopened. View on X
- @FOX56News (October 25, 2025, 1:40 AM): Lexington police are probing a homicide in the Lakebow Court area reported on Friday. View on X
- @LEX18News (October 22, 2025, 9:45 PM): An investigation into a Monday shooting in Lexington revealed that two men killed each other during a disorderly incident. View on X
- @SpectrumNews1KY (October 27, 2025, 4:25 PM): As temperatures drop in Kentucky ahead of winter, Lexington plans to house over 200 homeless individuals during the cold weather. View on X
- @LEX18News (October 21, 2025, 6:30 PM): Lexington is facing a growing homelessness crisis with rising numbers of unsheltered people and a shortage of available beds. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington’s ‘Thriller’ Parade Celebrates Community Spirit
Tennessee Dominates Kentucky in SEC Showdown
Tennessee Dominates Kentucky in SEC Showdown
Weekend Events in Lexington KY for October 25-26
University of Kentucky Men’s Basketball Sets Ambitious Goals
Top 5 Events This Weekend in Louisville, KY
PumpkinMania Festival Celebrates 15 Years in Lexington KY
Lexington Launches Wrock Lager to Celebrate 250 Years
Transylvania University Achieves Top Business and Accounting Rankings
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
