The Pumpkin Trail is a whimsical and lovely October tradition here in Lubbock. Hundreds of carved and painted pumpkins line the trail and fill out displays between the Lubbock Arboretum and The Garden & Arts Center in Clapp Park. And now, you can help make this year full of Autumnal magic!

Read More: Nightmare On 19th Street In Lubbock Turns 20 This Season

How To Participate In Building A Great Pumpkin Trail

Grab a pumpkin and get to creative work! The City of Lubbock needs your carved pumpkin to display on the trail. Volunteers will place your pumpkin and light it at night. The trail takes place this year on October 15-18. So turning your pumpkin in on the 14th will likely be the most ideal scenario (pumpkins carved too early can get soupy during a hot year, which may be the case for 2026). Your pumpkin will last longer and look better so long as you thoroughly clean it out. Don’t bleach your pumpkin- it’ll dry it out and make it look rotten sooner.

Read More: What To Know Before Visiting Atl Do Farms This Season l

Group Displays Welcome

Your business or organization can do a group project, too! You do need to apply for a display spot; you can do so here. I’ve seen some incredible group displays that follow a theme over the years. Additionally, your company or group can be a sponsor for the pumpkin trail by contacting Ruth Perkins at (806) 775-2670 or  ruthperkins@mylubbock.us.

Read More: Old MacDonald Farm In Lubbock Opens Pumpkin Patch Weekends This Fall

Your Presence Is The Best Contribution

Whether you take a daytime leisurely stroll through the trail, or you wait for the lights to come on at night, attending the trail will keep it alive for many more years to come. I love that it’s truly for all ages and everyone, with plenty of little-bitties, elderly folks, and young couples too. It’s always free to attend, and the city is pretty good about providing parking options during busier times. The Autumn season is pure magic that we all get to share together.

Lubbock Road Trip: Ghost Towns You Can Visit In West Texas

Looking to explore a real ghost town? Here are some road-trip worthy sites you are allowed to visit, along with how far they are from Lubbock.

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven