21. Who carved all these pumpkins and how long does it take?
Creative Director Michael Natiello leads a team of Historic Hudson Valley staff, volunteers, and local artists.

22. And what about the prep work?
In 2007, more than 1,000(!) volunteers helped Blaze by doing vital scooping and lighting work. Among the organization’s helping with the scooping and lighting this year are Westchester ARC, Another Step, Living Resources of Northern Westchester, Cardinal McClusky School, Even Start, Pace University students and faculty, Croton and Ossining High Schools, John Jay Middle School, Rye Country Day School, Westchester Putnam Boy Scouts, Heart of the Hudson Girl Scouts, Stamford (Conn.) Girl Scouts, United Way Volunteer Center, Historic Hudson Valley staff and volunteers from all of our sites, and many others who just like to pitch in!

23. They must have started carving pumpkins 10 years ago. When exactly did the carving begin?
Carving of the art pumpkins began in June. The real pumpkins are carved throughout October. Prior to each event week, it takes 15 to 20 volunteers several days of scooping pulp and seeds from the pumpkins to get them ready for the carvers. Many of the pumpkins must be replaced during the four weeks of the event.

24. Wow! What else do the volunteers do?
During each night of the event, it takes 15 to 20 volunteers to light the votive candles in the pumpkins. They start lighting about three hours before the event begins.

25. I like lighting up the lives of others and my dog gives me plenty of scooping practice. Can I volunteer?
Absolutely, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and tell her about your interest.

26. Where can I learn how to carve elaborate designs on a pumpkin?
CLICK HERE for some tips from Michael Natiello on taking your pumpkin carving to the next level. You will also find a selection of books about pumpkin carving at The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze Shop. If you really enjoy the process and live locally, you can even help us carve. Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

27. You must seriously pack in the visitors. How many people came to Van Cortlandt Manor for Blaze?
Last year’s event drew 67,000 visitors, nearly doubling the 36,000 visitors from 2006 and almost quadrupling the 18,000 who visited in 2005.

28. Is Blaze handicapped accessible? What about strollers?
Blaze is handicapped accessible, as there are no stairs to negotiate through the installation. However, there are some narrow and slightly sloped brick paths. Handicapped parking is available, but you must have a handicapped placard or plate. Strollers are permitted, but keep in mind that strollers which are particularly wide may not fit through some of the site’s more narrow passageways.

29. I love to procrastinate and show up to events without RSVPing. Do I really have to buy tickets in advance?
Absolutely! In order to safely accommodate the thousands of visitors who attend Blaze each evening, and to ensure a pleasant environment for all, advance reservations are a MUST, even for Historic Hudson Valley Members. Non-members and members alike must choose in advance the date and time slot they want to visit. This event sold out last year and hundreds were turned away, so buy your tickets now to secure the times you want.

30. I’m a proud member of Historic Hudson Valley, do I need a reservation?
Absolutely! Historic Hudson Valley members attend Blaze for free, but must make advanced reservations. Not a member? CLICK HERE

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