Happy Minot Monday, everyone! Today is exciting to me because I’m sharing an upcoming event YOU can help make happen. I’ve gotten the inside scoop on Minot’s first annual Pumpkin Walk from fellow BeLOCAL partner, Minot Parks Dept. As always, we owe a huge THANKS to BeLOCAL Minot–for making Minot Mondays possible each week. Check them out for all kinds of tips and local favorites that will have you thriving like a local in no time.
Have you heard about Minot’s Pumpkin Walk coming up on October 16? It’s been on my radar for quite a while now. Actually, it’s the fall activity I have been most looking forward to. (It even made my fall bucket list.)
However, due to unforeseeable circumstances I won’t be attending. My scheduled C-Section got moved up, so instead of participating in Minot’s Pumpkin Walk, I’ll be recovering in the labor and delivery unit.
That comes with its own set of perks, though. But that’s for another post.
The fact that I can’t attend will in no way hamper me from telling Y-O-U all about it and why you should be excited. I sat down with Elly of the Parks Department so I could get you the very best inside info. Here’s what you need to know:
What is Minot’s Pumpkin Walk?
Minot’s Pumpkin Walk is… a pumpkin walk. I had no idea this was a thing, but pumpkin walks take place all over the country. (Like this HUGE Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular in Louisville, KY.) So, while it’s not a new idea, it’s new to our community. And a new idea is always something to be jazzed about.
A pumpkin walk is kind of like a Christmas light parade or walking tour, except the main attraction is carved pumpkins lighting the way.
Our pumpkin walk is taking place at the Woodland Trail. (Which is one of my very favorite walking trails in town.) Minot Parks has collected pledges of 500 carved pumpkins for the event to light the trail. It will be a spectacular sight.
Visitors to the Pumpkin Walk will walk the trail at their own pace (jogging strollers do well on the path–I’m an expert). It’s estimated that about 1.75 miles of trail will be lit up and ready for the public.
Minot’s Pumpkin Walk is a one-night spectacular scheduled for October 16 7:00-9:00pm.
Get Involved: Loan or Donate YOUR Carved Pumpkin
This is what makes this event especially special. You can get involved. You can donate or loan your pumpkin to the walk–as long as it hasn’t been carved any earlier than today (October 5, 2020).
This is a perfect family or group activity. Get together and carve your pumpkins. Then attend the walk and spot your creations. Here are just a few ideas of groups that could have a blast participating:
- Military unit
- Military spouse group
- Small group
- Church team
- Youth Group
- Co-workers
- Family/Friends
- And everyone else…
Here are a few guidelines for donating pumpkins:
- Donated pumpkins must be carved
- Carve anyway you like
- Make sure all stringy gunk and seeds are cleared out of the inside
- Do NOT carve any earlier than October 5
- Minot Parks will take care of lighting, so you do NOT need to provide a luminary.
- Anyone/any group who donates more than 5 pumpkins will get signage at the event
Drop Off
Drop off your creations at the Woodland Trail the day of the event (October 16) between 2:00-5:00pm. If you can’t make that window call Minot Parks at (701) 857-4136 to make a special arrangement.
Can I Keep My Pumpkin?
Sure can! You can pick up your pumpkin any time on October 17. After that any leftovers will be disposed of or donated to be displayed at the Roosevelt Park Zoo.
What Else Should I Know?
This event is FREE! I forgot to ask if monetary donations would be accepted. My guess is yes.
Parking is limited at the Woodland Trail. Instead, park at the Dog Park (map here) or Jack Hoven Park/Softball Complex (map here). There will be a short walk from either lot to the trail head.
Individual Responsibility will be practiced in light of rising COVID 19 cases. Masks are not required but encouraged. No one will be policing distance between groups. Please maintain proper social distance.
Costumes welcome and encouraged. Feel free to come dressed in costume while you take in Minot’s Pumpkin Walk.
Get More Minot Love and Inspiration
Join me on Instagram and Facebook for more on life in Minot and daily inspiration for intentionally positive living. Also, catch my Instagram (also on Facebook) stories every Monday night for a round up of some of the week’s best upcoming events.
Remember to check out BeLOCAL for more local favorites (like a great place to eat after the Pumpkin Walk) and seasonal events. And, don’t forget to tap into all our amazing Parks Department offers the Minot community year round!
