Pocatello pumpkin carving contest brings veterans, community together
Published at
POCATELLO — When the leaves turn colors, it is time to break out the carving tools and take part in the tradition that is pumpkin carving. The American Veterans Post 1 is hosting its third annual pumpkin carving contest on Oct. 19 at the Veterans Memorial Building. The family-friendly event offers both kids and adults the opportunity to showcase their carving talents, eat some treats and interact with veterans.
Teresa Vialpando has planned the event for the last few years. She loves welcoming the public into the Veterans Memorial Building each year. Many people are unaware of the history or have never been inside, she said. The carving contest gives people a chance to take a look at Pocatello’s history and get to know local veterans; members of the American Veterans and American Legion Auxiliary love helping out.
“A long time ago (decades for some) every one of us AMVETS signed a blank check to the US military to support and defend our community, our state, our nation. We are just continuing that promise in new ways,” Vialpando told EastIdahoNews.com. “There are a lot of organizations and groups doing great things around here. We want to do the same. It is important for our community to know that we’re still here for them.”
Halloween is the kickoff event of winter, Vialpando says. It’s the perfect time to have a family-friendly event.
“This is the beginning of us all coming back together with the fun of the holidays starting. When fall and chilly weather comes back, people get back together, stay closer to home.”
She can’t wait to see what art comes to life this weekend.
Parents and members of the community have had a lot to say about the last few carving contests the veterans have held.
“This was a great way to spend a fall evening with my family,” Adam Barker, a local parent, said. “The kids loved carving their pumpkins and seeing all the other creative pumpkins on display.”
Sarah Rodrigues is another local residents who is excited to participate in the contest again this year.
“It is a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and support local organizations. There are a lot of talented people in the community,” she said.
Pumpkins will be judged in categories of the cutest, scariest, funniest and most creative; winners will each receive a trophy. There will be cookies and cider available for the whole family. However, carving supplies will be limited, so it is recommended that participants bring their own tools and pumpkins.
Carving begins at 6 p.m. on Oct. 19 at the Veterans Memorial Building, 300 North Johnson Avenue, Pocatello. Pumpkins will be lit at 8 p.m.
For those vampires who aren’t into carving pumpkins or who are willing to be helpful, a blood drive will be taking place that day, as well. The Red Cross will be on-site from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can reserve your time slot online at RedCrossBlood.org and enter AMVETS to schedule.