Halloween will soon be over and before you know, those old jack-o’-lanterns will be gone. But before you toss them in the trash, think about composting the pumpkins instead. And to make it easier on you and the family, these Chicagoland locations will recycle your pumpkins.
Pumpkin Smash (SCARCE)
When: Nov. 2
Where: Various locations in city and suburbs
Looking for a quick way to recycle your pumpkin? The SCARCE website provides a great list of pumpkin collection sites where you can easily drop off your pumpkin for compost. Remember to remove any candles or decorations before heading to the site.
Catapult a Pumpkin
When: Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-noon
Where: Lewis University (Parking Lot South of the main entrance), 1 University Parkway, Romeoville
Learn from the physics students at Lewis University on how to make your pumpkins fly from a catapult. If you need to shred any papers or get rid of electronics, they will also be recycling those too.
Pumpkin Smash & Bash
When: Nov. 2, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Where: Centennial Park, 1515 W. Touhy Ave, Park Ridge
Roll your pumpkin down the sled hill at Centennial Park! From there, bash them and launch them into the compost pile. This event is free, but registration is required.
Pumpkin Smash and Bash
When: Nov. 2, 1-2 p.m.
Where: Flick Park, 3600 Glenview Road, Glenview
Bring your carved pumpkins to Flick Park Sled Hill for a fun rolling competition. Learn how to smash pumpkins into compost, which will help nourish plants in the spring.
Great Pumpkin Smash
When: Nov. 2, 4-5 p.m.
Where: Barrie Park, 1011 S. Lombard Ave., Oak Park
This night event starts at the top of Barrie Hill as you push your pumpkin down to smithereens. Free and open to the public (no need for registration).
Smashing Pumpkins
When: Nov. 3, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Discovery Center Museum knows how to make recycling fun! Enjoy a variety of autumn activities and smashing experience including creating your own catapult and using your pumpkin as target practice. Event cost included with museum admission.
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This article originally published in October 2018. It has been updated with the most recent information.
