Oakland Nature Preserve searching for artists and jack-o'-lantern enthusiasts

Jack-o'-lanterns created by members of the community will illuminate a night-time hike with proceeds to benefit the Oakland Nature Preserve.

By Annabelle Sikes
| 2:45 p.m. October 6, 2022

West Orange Times & Observer
News

The Oakland Nature Preserve is searching for local artists to create uniquely carved pumpkins for the upcoming Pumpkin Glow Jack-o'-lantern Trail.

Creators are asked to craft funny or scary jack-o'-lanterns which must be carved with light inside for illumination. Artists must use battery powered lighting with no open flames in order to keep the habitat safe.

The night of the event all ONP visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite jack-o'-lanterns.

All pumpkins submitted will be available for pick-up the day after the event. Any pumpkins left behind will be shared with the ONP's program animals for enrichment.

This year's trail, which will span approximately .3 miles, will begin at the south end of the boardwalk and then proceed along the winding green trail back to the ONP parking area.

Attendees of the event are encouraged to bring flashlights and lanterns. In addition, visitors can dress in costumes to receive candy bags.

All proceeds from the event will go to benefit the ONP.

The pumpkin glow event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 28, and Saturday, Oct. 29, at the ONP, 747 Machete Trail.

For more information on the event or to participate, click here.

author

Annabelle Sikes

News Editor Annabelle Sikes was born in Boca Raton and moved to Orlando in 2018 to attend the University of Central Florida. She graduated from UCF in May 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a minor in sociology. Her past journalism experiences include serving as a web producer at the Orlando Sentinel, a reporter at The Community Paper, managing editor for NSM Today, digital manager at Centric Magazine and as an intern for the Orlando Weekly.