FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Arizona Science Center Hosts Pumpkinferno at
Arizona State Fair

New Luminary Walk-Through Experience Opens September 20 at the Arizona State Fair Grounds

 

PHOENIX, AZ - September 16, 2024 – As the Arizona State Fair makes its return to the Valley, Arizona Science Center is thrilled to announce a new installation to the fair this year, Pumpkinferno. Beginning September 20, the Science Center will present the luminary pumpkin-themed, walk-through activation which will feature thousands of hand-carved artificial pumpkins arranged in captivating displays.

“We are very eager to bring this brand-new, immersive experience to the Arizona State Fair,” said Guy Labine, The Hazel A. Hare President & CEO of Arizona Science Center. “This installation is something we have been thinking about bringing to the community for several years and we are excited to finally have the opportunity to do so.”

Throughout the fall season, Guests will be transported into an immersive and enchanting exhibition filled with different themed zones, themed lighting, hauntingly beautiful sounds and scientific discoveries. Guests will choose a character storyline and can move through the zone following their characters and learning about each individual’s scientific tie. The seven zones include:

    • Monster Mugshots – Catch a glimpse of the creepiest Halloween creatures including Dracula, Medusa, Werewolf Frankenstein’s Monster and more. Jack of the Lantern will guide you through mugshots made all out of pumpkins while Guests learn all about light science, circuits and the origin of carved pumpkins.
    • Witches Brew – No witch is complete without a cauldron. Follow The Witch through this spirited zone for some bubbling, toiling trouble and magical lessons in early herbalism and medicine.
    • Night at the Gallery – Discover a mesmerizing display of larger-than-life recreated paintings by some of the most famous artists in history. Plus, follow The ScareCrow through the zone and uncover the science behind biology and harvesting.
    • Cycle Through Time – Take a spin through time and see how bicycles have evolved over the decades. Plus, witness fascinating displays of carved pumpkins that showcase what bikes looked like throughout time.
    • Day of the Dead – Celebrate the Mexican holiday of remembrance, Dia de los Muertos, as you bask in the beauty of intricately carved decorated skulls, all created out of pumpkins.
    • Dragon’s Lantern Lair – Enter if you dare. Inside this mystical lair, Guests may run into mother dragon and her young hatching as they return home.
    • Expression Progression – Ever heard of a rollercoaster of emotions? Throughout this zone, visitors can catch emotional pumpkins moving through a series of changing expressions. 

“We are so excited to team up with Arizona Science Center to bring this captivating experience to visitors of the Arizona State Fair this fall;” stated Wanell Costello, Executive Director of the Arizona Exposition & State Fair. “There are so many visitors of the fair who come on an annual basis, and we are excited to have the opportunity to bring guests a new, jaw-dropping experience.”

In addition to the seven zones, patrons will engage with Science Center team members offering dazzling demonstrations tied to a fall-themed activation. Guests waiting to enter the exhibition can participate in Boo Bubbles, an engaging experiment that uses dry ice to create enthralling visual effects. 

Pumkinferno was created and produced by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission.

For more information about Pumpkinferno, tickets, hours of operation and more visit www.azscience.org/visit/events/pumpkinferno. 

For Media Inquiries:
Arizona Science Center, Kristina Celik, celikk@azscience.com 
Arizona State Fair, Brianda Martinez, Brianda.Martinez@azstatefair.com 

About Arizona Science Center 

Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and exciting science programs. The Center offers programs for all ages, including Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, Teen programs, Professional Development, and Adults’ Night Out: Science With A Twist. Whether onsite or at your location–get ready to embark on a hands-on STEM learning journey you’ll never forget. To learn more or to reserve tickets, visit azscience.org or call 602.716.2000.

About the Arizona State Fair 

The Arizona State Fair is an annual tradition celebrating Arizona’s culture, entertainment, and community. Held at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Central Phoenix, the 2024 Fair will feature thrilling rides, live concerts, unique food, and family-friendly attractions. With vendors, livestock shows, and performances by top artists, the Fair offers something for everyone. Join us for unforgettable fun and celebrate 140 years of Fair Fun from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, October 27 (open Thursdays to Sundays). For more information, visit azstatefair.com or follow us on @arizonastatefair on Facebook and Instagram.

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