JACKSON, Wyo. — It’s more than halfway through October, which means it’s officially time to start celebrating the ghoulish season. Buckrail will keep readers informed of enchanted events leading up to Halloween in the valley. Got a spooky event to add to the list? Email tips@buckrail.com to be included.

Friday, Oct. 17

Pizza and Pumpkins
Sidewinders West Bank will host a family-friendly event from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Save the pumpkin-carving mess for another day; Sidewinders will have free pumpkins for kids to paint. Jason the Balloon Artist will be in attendance making balloon animals. Apple cider and candy will be served, but don’t forget about dinner. The whole family can look forward to big discounts on pizza. Sidewinders told Buckrail that 16-inch cheese pizzas will be on sale for $10. Other full-size pies will run from $12 to $17 depending on the toppings.

Saturday, Oct. 18

Dornans Pumpkin Patch
The beloved 5th annual Pumpkin Patch returns at Dornans benefitting Teton County School District #1 and the Fund for Public Education. Enjoy free admission from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dornans, and partake in some family-friendly fall activities. The fall tradition brings together pumpkins, local food and drinks, raffle prizes and face painting to support local students who lack vital resources. Last year’s Pumpkin Patch raised nearly $30,000.

“Events like this show what happens when a community truly shows up for its kids,” Executive Director of the Fund for Public Education Ginny Stradley Meagher said via press release. “We’re so grateful to the Dornan family for their leadership and heart, and to everyone who comes out to make sure every student in Teton County public schools has what they need to learn and thrive.”

The raffle will be open until Oct. 20, and tickets can be purchased online. Raffle ticket proceeds go toward providing meals, mental health care, dental care, scholarships and school supplies for local students. Dornans asks that dogs remain at home during this event.

Pumpkin Decorating
The Teton County Library will host a free arts-and-crafts pumpkin party from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for kids of all ages in the Youth Auditorium. Pumpkins and decorations will be provided while supplies last. The event is designed for children and accompanying adults, who are asked to attend and partake in the adornment activity.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.