If you are searching for a fun Halloween trip for the whole family, then Sudbury’s Science North is hosting spooky but incredibly fun activities this Halloween at Dynamic Earth.
Credit: Science North
Set outdoors, Halloween at Dynamic Earth features a huge collection of hand-carved glowing pumpkins .
The most useful thing to know about Halloween at Dynamic Earth is that Pumpkinferno is no longer a one-size-fits-all evening outing. In 2026, families can see more than 7,000 themed pumpkins after dark, parents of very young children can choose a daylight session, and adults get a dedicated 19+ night.
The regular experience runs select nights from October 2 to 30 at Dynamic Earth in Sudbury. Admission includes the outdoor Pumpkinferno trail, access to Dynamic Earth, the animated Big Nickel Show, spooky science activities and the Pumpkin Passport scavenger hunt. Science North recommends 7 to 9 p.m. for the best illuminated viewing.
What is new in 2026?
The most useful addition for families is Lil’ Pumpkins, a 6 to 7 p.m. version designed for toddlers and visitors who prefer Halloween without the darker atmosphere. The trade-off is important: it takes place in daylight, so visitors will not see Pumpkinferno with its full nighttime lighting effects. Children three and under are free for Lil’ Pumpkins.
October 8 brings a separate 19+ Adults Night, with the Pumpkinferno trail, a night market, DJ, spooky movies, drinks and snacks. Tickets are $20.
There are also two notable differences from 2025. Last year featured 40 new Pumpkinferno displays and Local Legend Storytime; neither is currently advertised for 2026. More significantly, the underground mine tour offered during the 2025 Halloween season is not available as part of Halloween this year. Science North says it was removed because of lower visitor demand.
Which visit makes the most sense?
For the full visual effect, choose a regular evening and arrive after 7 p.m. Families with toddlers may find Lil’ Pumpkins more manageable, but should choose it for the earlier, calmer experience rather than the illuminated spectacle.
The 2026 schedule ends October 30, so Pumpkinferno is not currently scheduled for Halloween night itself. Tickets must also be purchased online in advance for half-hour arrival slots, and there are no flex tickets this year.
The trail operates rain or shine, so a weatherproof layer and comfortable outdoor footwear are sensible. Dynamic Earth has accessible parking and elevators, but Science North has not published specific accessibility information for the Pumpkinferno trail itself. Visitors who need details about trail surfaces or mobility access should confirm before purchasing.
Is it worth attending?
At $15 plus HST, Pumpkinferno is reasonably priced for an evening attraction. Four paid admissions total $60 before tax; onsite parking adds $3, while hot chocolate and s’mores kits cost $6.50 each. A free offsite shuttle operates on selected nights from 7 p.m.
The stronger travel proposition is to build a weekend around it. Halloween ticket holders receive 20% off regular admission to both Science North and Dynamic Earth through October 30. From North Bay, Sudbury is about a 1.5-hour drive, making this realistic as a day trip.
Credit: Science North
For families looking to celebrate Halloween in Northern Ontario, Pumpkinferno at Dynamic Earth offers both tradition and something new to discover each visit.
Halloween at Dynamic Earth
What: Carve out family fun and excitement at Dynamic Earth this October with themed events including Pumpkinferno, Spooky tales on the Trail, Fire Magic Science Show, and Halloween treats at the Copper Cauldron.
Dates: October 2 to 4, 9 to 11, 16 to 18, 22 to 25, and 29 to 30, 2026
6 to 9 p.m., rain or shine
Venue: Dynamic Earth, 122 Big Nickel Road, Sudbury, Ontario
Admission: $15 plus HST; members $7.50
Lil’ Pumpkins: 6 to 7 p.m. on applicable event dates; $15; children 3 and under free
19+ Adults Night: October 8, 7 to 10 p.m.; $20 general admission, $16 members; ID required
Tickets: Advance online timed tickets required; no flex tickets in 2026
Parking: $3 onsite; spaces are limited
Free shuttle: From 1299 Lorne Street every 15 minutes from 7 to 9:15 p.m. on selected event nights
Food: Available for purchase at the Copper Cauldron; optional hot chocolate and s’mores kit is $6.50 plus HST