Illinois, Ohio set fall pumpkin displays

Franklin Park Conservatory’s Pumpkins Aglow returns on select evenings through Nov. 1, featuring more than 700 illuminated, hand-carved pumpkins in scenes that include pirates, mermaids and skeletons, along with the pumpkin house and singing pumpkin patch. The family-oriented event also offers live performances, a light-up dance floor, a new straw-bale maze, activities and food; advance ticket reservations are recommended, and some dates are unavailable. Separately, Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s student-run Great Glass Pumpkin Patch returns Oct. 17, where students will sell about 400 handmade glass pumpkins for $50 to $200 and hold raffles. Proceeds support the university’s glass artist and visiting artist programs, as well as student opportunities.