Pumpkin Palooza Art and Science Celebration at ACP

PUMPKIN PALOOZA: A glass pumpkin patch greets visitors at the Arts Council of Princeton’s annual Pumpkin Palooza. This year’s event is on Saturday, October 25. (Photo courtesy of Arts Council of Princeton)

Pumpkin Palooza, the Arts Council of Princeton’s annual art and science bonanza, combines fiery glassblowing, hands-on experiments, and a pumpkin patch made entirely of glass on Saturday, October 25 from 1-3 p.m.

Visitors will see live demonstrations from Pezz Glassworks artists Jarryd and Gwyn, who will showcase the science of molten glass. Watch as they manipulate 2,000-degree glass into vibrant, one-of-a-kind pumpkins, then explore their pumpkin patch featuring works in every color and size.

The science doesn’t stop there thanks to the contributions of two Princeton University groups: the Molecular Biology Outreach Program will encourage guests of to roll up their sleeves and extract DNA from pumpkins in a interactive experiment; plus, all ages hands-on chemistry activities from the Chemistry Department.

Before and after Pumpkin Palooza (11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.), attendees can try their hand at making their very own glass pumpkin. With guidance, participants will choose colors, blow through the hose, and watch as their custom pumpkin comes to life. Walk-ins are first-come, first-served.

Whether you come for the science, the art, or the pumpkins themselves, Pumpkin Palooza is the perfect fall celebration for the whole family.

The Arts Council of Princeton is at 102 Witherspoon Street. For more information and free registration, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org/event/pumpkin-palooza.