Illustration of a pumpkin carving scene (Spookapalooza Pumpkin Carving Contest)
Other Halloween Activities

Spookapalooza Pumpkin Carving Contest

DeSoto State Park hosts the 15th Annual Spookapalooza Pumpkin Carving Contest. Participants of all ages can submit their creatively carved pumpkins, judged on appearance, originality, and neatness. Entries can feature any theme, including Halloween, nature, or the fall season. Winners will be announced via social media.

More ways to explore Halloween in East Ridge:

Other Halloween Near Fort Payne

What to Expect

Annual pumpkin carving contest with diverse themes.

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families, artists, creative individuals

Vibe

Creative, festive, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Medium

Special Events & Promotions

  • 15th Annual Spookapalooza Pumpkin Carving Contest
  • Campsite reservation procedure for Spookapalooza 2025

Tags

pumpkin carvingfamily friendlyfall festivalhalloween festivalcommunity eventpumpkin patcharts crafts

Location

DeSoto State Park
Fort Payne, AL

Event Details

Duration

Event spans several days with a deadline and announcement date.

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

DeSoto State Park

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Plan to submit your pumpkin carving entry by noon on Saturday, October 25th, as this is the strict deadline for judging.
  • Check DeSoto's Facebook or Instagram pages on Sunday, October 26th, for the official winner announcements.
  • Consider a creative theme that stands out, as entries are judged on overall appearance, creativity, neatness, and originality.
  • You can pick up your carved pumpkin at the DSP Country Store on Sunday, October 26th, after the winners have been announced.
  • If you plan to camp during Spookapalooza, review the specific campsite reservation procedure linked on the event page to ensure a fair booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the judging criteria for the pumpkin carving contest?

Entries are judged on overall appearance, creativity, neatness, and originality.

Can people of all ages participate?

Yes, the contest is free and open to all ages.

Where do I turn in my pumpkin carving entry?

Entries must be turned in to DeSoto's Country Store on County Road 89, on the porch where a table will be set up.

When will the winners be announced?

Winners will be announced on Sunday, October 26, 2025, via DeSoto's Facebook and Instagram pages.

Can I pick up my pumpkin after the contest?

Yes, entries can be picked up at the DSP Country Store on Sunday, October 26th.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Aug 22, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team

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