This fall, forget about plain old pumpkin soup! Just a few kilometers from Brussels, pumpkins take on truly spectacular proportions. From September 25 to November 1, 2026, Pumpkinmania once again transforms the grounds of the Château de Grand-Bigard into a vast orange kingdom where thousands of cucurbits come to life as monumental sculptures, fantastical animals , and some truly unusual experiences.
An enchanted forest entirely populated by pumpkins
After taking us on journeys through different worlds over the years, Pumpkinmania brings us this year to the heart of the forest. In the grounds of the Château de Grand-Bigard, monumental structures made of wood and metal are covered with thousands of pumpkins of various shapes and colors, forming a veritable autumnal bestiary. Curious foxes, majestic owls, and elegant deer emerge around every corner of the paths in a setting that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
The result? A particularly photogenic stroll, featuring giant installations and landscapes in seasonal colors. And since there are more than 800 varieties of pumpkins and squash, the event is also an opportunity to discover that the cucurbit family is not limited to the classic orange pumpkin sitting on a windowsill.
A pumpkin boat and truly XXL pumpkins
Pumpkinmania doesn’t just let you admire its creations. Every weekend, visitors can take part in various activities, including one of the most unusual: climbing aboard a real giant pumpkin transformed into a boat to sail on the castle’s pond. Yes, you read that right.
On Saturday, September 26, it’s also time for the traditional weighing of the giant pumpkins. Afterward, the most impressive specimens will remain on display in the park. On weekends, visitors of all ages can also try their hand at pumpkin carving. In addition, an artist will create his own works right in front of visitors. And on November 1, the giant pumpkins will be cut open so that curious visitors can explore their insides and growers can collect their precious seeds.
And as October progresses, Pumpkinmania shifts into Halloween mode
Starting October 24, the atmosphere changes completely. Pumpkinmania extends its hours until 7 p.m. and adds a nearly one-kilometer Halloween trail to the walk, filled with animated puppets, light and sound effects , and eerie scenery.
It’s the perfect way to wrap up October with a mix of enchanted forests and thrills! A visit is, of course, highly recommended for witches, ghosts, and other monsters in costume. For food lovers, the Pumpkinmania Kitchen rounds out the visit with a menu entirely dedicated to the star of the season! Soup, pumpkin fries, paninis, and even cucurbit-style falafels.
📍 Address : Château de Grand-Bigard, Isidoor Van Beverenstraat 5, 1702 Groot-Bijgaarden.
📅 Dates : From September 25 to November 1, 2026.
🎟️ Price : Starting at €9 for children and €16 for adults
