Pumpkin Palooza Ushers in Autumn Fun

It’s officially Fall and the Las Cruces Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its annual Pumpkin Palooza fall event on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Frank O'Brien Papen Community Center. The free and family-friendly event will be held from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in the park at Frank O'Brien Papen Community Center, 304 W. Bell Ave. The event is free and open to the entire community.

Experience the charm of the season by taking a scenic hayride around the park. Participate in fun, family-friendly games and win prizes. Get into the festive spirit with creative face painting. Pumpkin Palooza offers arts and crafts, photo booths, music, food vendors and more, including a pie-eating contest for adults and children, and a costume contest for children. There’s even a special category for pets!

As a special highlight, stop by the Molina Healthcare booth to receive one of 200 mini pumpkins, perfect for decorating.

The Pumpkin Palooza schedule of contests includes:

Pet Costume Contest: 3:30 p.m.

Children Costumes Contests:

• Ages 1-4 at 4 p.m.
• Ages 5-8 at 4:30 p.m.
• Ages 9 and up at 5 p.m.

Pie-Eating Contest:

• Adults at 5:30 p.m.
• Youth ages 5-8 at 5:45 p.m.
• Youth ages 9 and up at 5:50 p.m.

For more information, call the Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center at (575) 541-2454.