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Gilroy, CA (August 6, 2026): Now in its third year, Carnival Nights at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park returns on weekend evenings from August 15 through September 7, 2026, giving guests even more opportunities to experience world-class entertainment and late-summer fun.
The event is FREE for Gilroy Gardens Premium Members and included with regular park admission. Discounted evening-only tickets are also available for just $19.99 after 4:00 p.m., with even deeper discounts for residents of Gilroy and neighboring towns on opening weekend (August 15-16) only.
Beginning August 15, Gilroy Gardens will be open on Saturdays and Sundays, plus Labor Day (Monday, September 7) from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with Carnival Nights entertainment beginning at 5:00 p.m. Guests who purchase a regular full-day admission ticket can enjoy the park’s rides, water attractions, and beautiful gardens throughout the day before experiencing Carnival Nights in the evening. For those who only want to experience the evening festivities, discounted admission is available for just $19.99 after 4:00 p.m. Both full-day and evening-only tickets are available online at gilroygardens.org/carnival-nights.
“Guest feedback has played a big role in how Carnival Nights has evolved,” said Sandy Le, Director of Marketing at Gilroy Gardens. “Many families told us that Friday evenings weren’t always the easiest time to visit, so we shifted the event to Saturdays and Sundays to make it more convenient and give even more guests the opportunity to experience Carnival Nights.”
Live performances at Carnival Nights include World Champion magician Johnny “Ace” Palmer, thrilling acrobatic performances from We Flip Entertainment, and other high-energy specialty acts throughout the park. The family-friendly event also features midway games, carnival-inspired food and drinks, an outdoor roller-skating rink, and the park’s iconic rides and gardens illuminated at night.
During opening weekend of Carnival Nights (August 15 and 16, 2026) only, residents of Gilroy can purchase admission tickets from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. for just $12 (plus $12 for parking), while neighbors who reside in Morgan Hill, San Martin, Hollister or Salinas can get tickets for $15 (plus $15 for parking). Proof of residency must be shown at front gate to claim special “We Love Our Locals” and “We Love Our Neighbors” offers. Up to six (6) tickets may be purchased for each address.
Discounted admission tickets, Memberships, and more information are available at gilroygardens.org/carnival-nights.
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