A cool autumn breeze, golden leaves, and the sound of laughter filled Fitzgerald Park on Saturday as the Eaton County Parks & Recreation Department hosted its second annual Pumpkin Chuck event. The day offered a perfect mix of seasonal fun and community spirit, drawing around 50 residents and families from the Grand Ledge area to enjoy a day of pumpkin-flinging excitement.
🎯 Pumpkins Take Flight
Participants were invited to bring their leftover pumpkins for one last hurrah before compost season — by launching them across the park using a massive catapult. Each family had the option to bring their own pumpkin for a free launch, while extra pumpkins were available for $2 each. The “pumpkin roll” challenge down the sledding hill added another layer of competition, with prizes going to the farthest-rolling gourds.
Cheers erupted as pumpkins soared (and splattered), creating a festive, laughter-filled atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of fall in Grand Ledge.
☕ Local Vendors and Community Support
Half a dozen local vendors set up shop to support the event, adding to the festive vibe. Among them were:
Grand Ledge Area District Library, offering fall-themed crafts and information on upcoming community programs.
Toads LLC, serving up hot coffee, cocoa, and homemade breakfast treats from their eye-catching green retro VW camper van café.
Helping Hands Food Pantry, raising awareness for their ongoing community food support programs and sharing ways residents can get involved this holiday season.
A DJ under the park pavilion kept energy levels high, spinning upbeat tunes that had kids dancing while families mingled and explored.
📸 Fun for Everyone
Visitors enjoyed a variety of activities beyond the pumpkin launches, including photo booths for families to capture their best fall memories, as well as a warm and friendly community atmosphere. The event offered a perfect reminder of what makes Grand Ledge special — neighbors coming together to celebrate simple joys, support local organizations, and have a little fun outdoors.
As one participant said with a grin, “There’s no better way to say goodbye to Halloween than by sending your pumpkin flying!” 🎃
🌟 A Community Tradition in the Making
The Pumpkin Chuck event has quickly become one of Grand Ledge’s favorite fall traditions. Between the smell of cider, the laughter of children, and the sound of pumpkins splatting across the field, it’s safe to say this annual celebration will keep growing in popularity.
For those who missed it, organizers plan to bring the event back next year — bigger, louder, and maybe with a few new surprises. Until then, the team at Eaton County Parks & Rec invites everyone to visit Fitzgerald Park year-round for its beautiful trails, playgrounds, and river views.
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