Pumpkin Nights: Explore 10 'worlds' created with hand-carved pumpkins

One of the displays at the State Fairgrounds' Pumpkin Nights is a nod to Hogwarts' Great Hall.

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Transport yourself to another world made entirely of pumpkins when Pumpkin Nights returns to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds this weekend.

Visitors explore a half-mile walking path with over 3,000 hand-carved pumpkins, which are used to create 10 different interactive "worlds" or "lands."

The installations include "Pumpkin Passage," a nod to Harry Potter's Great Hall; "Rum River Pirates," a tropical island scene where pirates protect the pumpkin treasure; a Dia de los Muertos-themed land; and an underwater world.

The outdoor, family-friendly festival also features food, booze and seasonal beverages, and activities for everyone – including face painting, photo ops, movie screenings and trick-or-treating.

Pumpkin Nights debuted in the Twin Cities last year and hosted over 20,000 visitors across an 18-day run, selling out multiple dates, the website says.

Here's another look at what to expect:

Ticket info and FAQ

Pumpkin Nights will be open for 17 days, from Friday, Oct. 13 through Sunday, Oct. 29, the website says.

Tickets are available here. It's $20 for adults, $16 for kids and seniors. Children 3 years and under get in for free, and there are various discounts during weekdays.

When you buy a ticket, you choose an entry time. It's open 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 6:30 p.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday.

Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like.

Visitors are encouraged to wear costumes. Answers to other frequently asked questions are here.