I think pumpkin carving is my favorite part about Halloween – apart from all the candy of course, but it’s been years since I’ve been young enough to get dressed up and go trick-or-treating. There’s something about getting together with some close friends and family, cutting out some bizarre shapes and roasting the pumpkin seeds that makes me really appreciate fall. There’s only one thing that beats it – going out to look at other bigger, professionally carved pumpkins.
So, this weekend’s event may be more of a hike than you’re used to, but I promise the 60 minute drive is worth it.
Almost every October since I was four or five, my family has attended the Chadds Ford Great Pumpkin Carve. Carvers come from all over Pennsylvania to participate in a contest to see who can create the most elaborate creation from nothing more than a pumpkin and a few tools. You’d be amazed to see what some people come up with.
On October 27th to 29th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., come out and see the creations of nearly 100 pumpkin carvers statewide. I’ve seen everything from pumpkin carriages and pirate ships to recreations of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” all etched on the shells of 150-400 pound naturally grown pumpkins!
For only $5 per adult and $3 per child, come out to Chadds Ford to admire and vote for your favorite pumpkin creations. It’s a great time to bundle up with a mug of hot chocolate and spend time with some close friends and family. Parking is free, and many other events such as live music and hayrides are happening on the premises as well. Pumpkin carving begins at 5:30 p.m. Thursday night, and ends at 8 p.m. for all the creations to be lit and placed on display. Voting takes place until Friday evening, with the winners being announced later that night. Lighting continues until Saturday the 29th.
Like I said, this event is a bit of a drive with its one hour commute, but I promise you won’t regret it. It’s really easy to get to – all you have to do is hop on PA-741 E and then turn onto US -1 N. Any more questions? Call the Chadds Ford Historical Society at (610) 388-7376 for more information or check out their website. Gather up a group of friends and a camera for a fun night of memories and make a pit stop at a Wawa for a late night junk food run! No matter what you decide, The Great Pumpkin Carve won’t be like anything you’ve seen before.