Fifth Annual Pumpkin Smash

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Give your Halloween pumpkins a second life at The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department’s fifth annual

Pumpkin Smash!

November 1, 2026
Sterling Ridge Park and Ride
8001 McBeth Way, 77382
2 to 5 p.m.

This free, family-friendly event offers residents a fun and environmentally friendly way to dispose of their Halloween pumpkins while helping reduce waste sent to landfills. Rather than tossing pumpkins in the trash, participants can bring their carved or whole pumpkins to be smashed and transformed into nutrient-rich compost for local gardens.

Each year more than a billion pounds of pumpkins are discarded in the United States. Pumpkin Smash encourages residents to rethink pumpkin disposal and discover how composting can turn food waste into a valuable resource.

Drop It, Smash It, Compost It!
Participants can choose their favorite way to smash their pumpkins, whether it’s giving them a whack with a bat, breaking them apart or watching them go splat from an 80-foot drop. Township staff will be on site to help ensure the activities remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.

All collected pumpkins will be composted, helping divert organic waste from landfills and return valuable nutrients to the soil.

What to Bring
Residents may bring pumpkins of any size or quantity, whether carved or whole. Pumpkins painted with acrylic paint are also accepted. Before arriving, please remove all non-compostable decorations and materials, including candles, stickers, yarn, googly eyes and plastic items.

For safety, participants should wear closed-toe shoes and bring safety goggles and gloves. Protective equipment will also be available at the event.

Learn More About Composting
Interested in composting at home? Local composting experts will be available to answer questions, share helpful information and provide details about upcoming free composting classes.

Join The Woodlands Township in making a positive environmental impact this Halloween season. Bring your pumpkins and help turn holiday waste into something beneficial for the community.

For more information, contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.