How do I trigger a Pumpkin Moon event in Terraria?

To trigger a Pumpkin Moon event in Terraria, you need to craft and use a Pumpkin Moon Medallion. This event is a challenging wave-based invasion that occurs at night and features powerful enemies and bosses. The event is designed for late-game players, as it requires hardmode materials and gear to survive and succeed. Below is a detailed explanation of how to trigger and prepare for the Pumpkin Moon event.

First, you need to craft a Pumpkin Moon Medallion. This item requires 30 Pumpkins, 5 Ectoplasm, and 10 Hallowed Bars. Pumpkins can be grown from Pumpkin Seeds, which are obtained by breaking grass during the Halloween season or purchased from the Dryad during that time. Ectoplasm is dropped by Dungeon Spirits, which spawn in the Dungeon after defeating Plantera. Hallowed Bars are crafted from Hallowed Ore, which is mined in the Underground Hallow biome after defeating the Mechanical Bosses (The Twins, The Destroyer, and Skeletron Prime). Once you have all the materials, craft the medallion at a Mythril or Orichalcum Anvil.

To trigger the event, use the Pumpkin Moon Medallion at night. The event will last until dawn, so you have a limited time to complete as many waves as possible. The event consists of 15 waves, with each wave becoming progressively more difficult. The goal is to defeat as many enemies and bosses as possible to earn points, which determine your progress through the waves. The final wave features the Mourning Wood and Pumpking bosses, which drop valuable loot such as the Raven Staff, Horseman's Blade, and Spooky Wings.

Preparation is key to surviving the Pumpkin Moon event. Start by building a suitable arena. A flat, open area with platforms for mobility is ideal. Add traps, such as Dart Traps and Flame Traps, to deal extra damage to enemies. Place Heart Lanterns, Campfires, and Honey Pools for health regeneration. Use Bast Statues for increased defense and Sunflowers for increased movement speed. Consider building a small shelter with a bed to set your spawn point in case you die.

Combat strategies vary depending on your character class. Melee players should focus on high-damage weapons like the Terra Blade or Vampire Knives, along with armor such as Beetle or Turtle Armor. Ranged players can use the Chain Gun with Chlorophyte Bullets or the Tsunami with Holy Arrows. Mages should equip the Razorpine or Razorblade Typhoon with Spectre Armor for healing. Summoners can use the Xeno Staff or Tempest Staff with Tiki Armor. Regardless of your class, ensure you have accessories like the Ankh Shield, Wings, and Celestial Shell for survivability and mobility.

Resource management is crucial during the event. Stock up on healing potions, such as Greater Healing Potions, and buff potions like Ironskin, Regeneration, and Swiftness. Use Ammo Reservation Potions if you are a ranged class to conserve ammunition. Keep a stack of Recall Potions or a Magic Mirror to quickly return to your arena if you die.

Common mistakes to avoid include underestimating the event's difficulty and not preparing adequately. The Pumpkin Moon event is one of the hardest in the game, so ensure you have the best gear and buffs available. Avoid fighting in tight spaces, as the Mourning Wood and Pumpking can overwhelm you quickly. Focus on crowd control and prioritize high-threat enemies.

Advanced techniques include using teleporters to quickly move around your arena and setting up a minecart track for rapid movement. You can also use the Nurse NPC to heal during the event, but be cautious as enemies can target her. Optimize your arena by adding Lava Traps and Boulders to deal passive damage to enemies.

In summary, triggering the Pumpkin Moon event requires crafting a Pumpkin Moon Medallion and using it at night. Prepare by building a well-equipped arena, gathering resources, and optimizing your gear. Use class-specific strategies and avoid common mistakes to maximize your success. With proper preparation and execution, you can conquer the Pumpkin Moon event and earn its valuable rewards.