Pirates and Pumpkins at the St. Louis Aquarium is a seasonal family attraction at Union Station that brings pirate scenes, carved pumpkins, interactive activities, and underwater fun to the Aquarium each fall. The 2026 event runs September 18 through November 2.
2026 Dates and Location
Pirates and Pumpkins is scheduled for September 18–November 2, 2026, at the St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, 201 South 18th Street in downtown St. Louis. The event is included with general admission or an annual pass; confirm current entry details and event programming on the official Pirates and Pumpkins page before visiting.
What Families Can Expect
The Aquarium is transformed with pirate settings, carved pumpkins, photo opportunities, and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore pirate scenes, fire simulated cannons, create a pirate crown, race toy pirate ships, and look for carved pumpkins throughout the exhibits.
Underwater Pumpkin Carving and Pirate Bingo
Two recurring features give the event its distinctive character: Pirate Bingo and the Golden Pumpkin underwater-carving challenge in Shark Canyon. Event-day times and participation details can change, so use the Aquarium’s current schedule when planning your visit.
After-Dark Events
Select October evenings may include separately ticketed programming, such as Trick-or-Treat Nights and adult-oriented Pirates After Dark events. These dates, prices, and activities vary, so do not rely on prior-year listings; check the official event pages before purchasing tickets.
Planning a Visit to Union Station
The Aquarium is located inside Union Station and is easiest to pair with a downtown outing. The South Parking Lot can be entered from Market Street at 18th or 20th; the Aquarium advises guests to validate their ticket for its current discounted parking rate. Allow one to three hours for a typical Aquarium visit and arrive with time to explore the seasonal displays.
Quick FAQs
When is Pirates and Pumpkins 2026? September 18–November 2, 2026.
Is it included with Aquarium admission? The core activities are included with general admission or an annual pass; special after-dark events may require separate tickets.
Schedules, access, and event details can change. Confirm directly with the St. Louis Aquarium before visiting.
