For the second year, Pumpkin Palooza—a friendly pumpkin carving competition and party for the arts—is coming to Piedmont Arts.
On Friday, Oct. 28, guests can take in the pumpkin-carving action while enjoying a Halloween party atmosphere with snacks, a cash bar and fun events like a photo booth and mini pumpkin decorating. Costumes are definitely encouraged, but not required.
“We want guests to have fun while watching our teams create pumpkin masterpieces,” said Director of Marketing, Communications and Design Bernadette Moore. “Our last Pumpkin Palooza had eight teams of carvers who all did a fantastic job.
“We would love to expand the number of teams we have this year. So, get your friends or co-workers together and sign up your team today. And for those not into carving, come enjoy the party.”
Tickets to Pumpkin Palooza are $10 and are available at Piedmont Arts, by calling (276) 632- 3221 or online at PiedmontArts.org.
The Pumpkin Palooza carving competition is open to businesses, artists and any group that wants to test their pumpkin carving skills and raise money for the arts in Martinsville-Henry County.
Each team is made up of two to four participants who work together on a single entry that will be judged against the entries of other teams. Teams are encouraged to be creative and think big when planning their pumpkin design.
Teams are also encouraged to dress in costume and decorate their tables for a chance at winning the Team Spirit Award.
The team registration fee is $50. For teams with more than four members, there will be a $10 charge for each additional member. All carving teams should download an entry form and the complete carving rules/event schedule at PiedmontArts.org or pick up a copy at the museum. To register for the carving competition, team entry forms must be completed and returned to Piedmont Arts by Tuesday, Oct. 25.
Prizes for this year’s competition include trophies for first, second and third place in the carving contest. The Team Spirit Award is awarded to the team with the most spirit. Attitude, costumes, decorations, etc. will be considered by the judges when choosing a winner. The People’s Choice Award will also be presented.
During the 90-minute carving period, guests can vote for their favorite team. The team with the most votes will win People’s Choice.
Carving teams arrive at Piedmont Arts and set up their carving stations from 5 to 7 p.m. Teams will use this time to gut their pumpkins and decorate their table.
Carving begins at 7 p.m. and guests are welcome to arrive. Ninety minutes of furious pumpkin carving action will ensue. In addition to carving, the photo booth and cash bar will be open. Carving ends at 8:30 p.m., and teams will prep their stations for judging. Judging begins at 8:45 p.m.
Winning teams will be announced at 9 p.m. and prizes awarded. Enjoy music, drinks and food while celebrating until 10 p.m.
