From painting pumpkins to finding a local pick-your-own farm, Kanawha Valley residents will have several free ways to celebrate fall throughout October.
West Virginia State University Extension Service is sponsoring five fall-themed activities and workshops in Charleston, South Charleston and Institute. The events offer hands-on activities for children and adults, as well as information on pumpkin preservation, local farms, agritourism and seasonal food resources.
The series begins Wednesday, Oct. 7, with a pumpkin decorating and preservation workshop. The seminar will take place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Rebecca Street Urban Farm, 1802 Sixth Ave. in Charleston.
Participants can decorate pumpkins with natural and craft materials while learning simple techniques to extend the life of carved pumpkins using non-toxic sprays. Registration is required for the workshop.
Families will have a second opportunity to get creative on Friday, Oct. 9, during a pop-up pumpkin craft and agritourism information session at the South Charleston Farmers Market. The event runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
During the session, children and parents can decorate miniature pumpkins while learning about agritourism destinations across West Virginia. WVSU Extension Educator Jorge Vera will provide regional farm guides, information about local pick-your-own farms and ways consumers can directly support the state's agricultural economy.
On Thursday, Oct. 22, visitors to WVSU Fall Fest can decorate pumpkins from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the university's Institute campus. Fall Fest is free and open to the public. Vera will discuss regional farms and other pick-your-own operations during the event.
A grandfamilies and community harvest workshop will bring generations together on Friday, Oct. 23. From 6 to 8 p.m., relatives, caregivers, children and other community members are invited to WVSU Stinger Produce Market to work together on pumpkin decorating and natural autumn crafts made with materials from West Virginia farms.
The workshop will allow participants to share intergenerational farm activities and seasonal family recipes and learn about local food resources.
WVSU Extension's fall activities wrap up Wednesday, Oct. 28, during Capitol Market's Market Monster Mash.
From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., market trick-or-treaters can paint pumpkins or decorate them with stickers at a hands-on pumpkin station. Parents can find information about local agritourism destinations, farm stands, and upcoming winter events. Pumpkins will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Free tickets for the Monster Mash event are required and can be obtained ahead of the event at Capitol Market.
For questions or more information, contact WVSU Extension Educator Jorge Vera at 304-204-4072 or jvera@wvstateu.edu.
