Jack-o-lanterns floating in the Llano River

The Llano River Pumpkin Float marks ten years in 2026. Photo courtesy of Llano River Pumpkin Float.

Have your camera ready for the Llano River Pumpkin Float. The event is a treat for the eyes as the lighted pumpkins dance and glow against a dark, sparkling Llano River at dusk. 2026 marks ten years of the Pumpkin Float which takes place Saturday, October 24, from 5-9 p.m. at Badu Park, 300 Legion Drive in Llano. The event is family-friendly and free to attend. 

Carved pumpkins in Llano
Before there was a Llano River Pumpkin Float, the Llano Pumpkin Carving Contest was the annual Halloween tradition in Llano. Photo courtesy of Llano River Pumpkin Float.

A Halloween tradition, this one-of-a-kind event hosted by the Llano Visitor Center evolved from the Llano Pumpkin Carving Contest. The carving contest started in 2006 in an effort to promote the arts in the Llano community. In 2016 the pumpkin carving contest took to the Llano River and became the Llano River Pumpkin Float. The event, which created a spectacular sight, quickly became a community favorite. What began as a simple community carving contest is now an evening of good family fun.

Men with pumpkins floating in the river.
Participate in the Pumpkin Float by bringing your own carved pumpkin to include in the jack-o-lantern flotilla. Photo courtesy of Llano River Pumpkin Float.

Carve your own masterpiece and tote it along. Anyone can contribute to the jack-o-lantern flotilla. Costumes are welcome at the event and kids should bring containers for collecting candy. Local businesses and individuals will hand out goodies to young treat-seekers. Along with festive treats, the event features bounce houses, vendors, and kids’ activities, plus the iconic sight of carved pumpkins floating along the Llano River.

For more information or questions, visit the event’s Facebook page.