Welcome autumn in Osceola County with a day full of color, critters, and creativity! On Saturday, October 18 from 10 AM to 4 PM, Wild Florida is hosting its annual Pumpkin Fest—a perfect outing for families looking for festive fun and animal encounters.

🎨 Paint, Play, & Pumpkin Perfection

Bring your imagination (and leave the mess behind)—for just $5 per pumpkin, guests can pick one up at the painting station (located between the Gift Shop and the Gator Pavilion) and decorate it however they like. If you want to make it a full fall experience, there’s a $10 combo ticket that includes both your pumpkin and admission to the Gator Park. Non‐toxic paints, brushes, crayons, and coloring sheets will be provided—nothing to bring but your creativity. Be sure to grab your reserved pumpkin by noon, or park staff will release the extras first‐come, first‐served.

After decorating, you can take your pumpkin home—or leave it for the Gator Park animals to enjoy. Either way, all materials are safe and animal‐friendly. And for a little extra family flair, free face painting is available near the Gator Park entrance and Information Station—the ideal spot for a festive photo op!

🎯 Games, Raffles & Exciting Events

Pumpkin Fest isn’t just about pretty pumpkins—it’s about community fun, too:

  • Scavenger hunt: Starting at the pumpkin painting area anytime between 10 AM and 2 PM, guests can pick up a scavenger hunt card and search exhibits for answers. All entries must be turned in by 2:30 PM.

  • Guess the pumpkin’s weight: Test your estimation skills! One oversized pumpkin will be on display—guess its weight for a chance to win a prize.

  • Bonus raffle ticket: Want to increase your chances of winning? Snap a selfie by any Wild Florida sign, post it on Instagram, tag @wildfloridairboats, and receive an extra raffle ticket! Raffle drawings happen at 3 PM at the Gator Pavilion.

🐾 More Than Just Pumpkins

Pumpkin Fest is housed within the Wild Florida retreat, so while you’re there, take time to explore:

  • Gator Park—home to over 200 native and exotic animals.

  • Drive-Thru Safari Park, where you’ll see free-roaming animals in natural habitats.

  • The petting zoo, lemur walks, capybaras, and more await throughout the park.

📅 How to Join In

To make sure everyone can join, there’s a reservation step:

  • RSVP by October 1 via the Pumpkin Painting web registration form.

  • Tickets & combo deals are available at the event.

Don’t miss out—this is an Osceola fall tradition that mixes the adventures of Wild Florida with autumn’s creative charm. Bring your family, your friends, and your Fall spirit!