Reiman Gardens needs stenciling and pumpkin carving volunteers during the first and second weeks of October. They are preparing for their annual “Spirits in the Gardens” event, which is scheduled to be held Oct. 11-13.
The event itself features over 1,000 jack-o’-lanterns that are hand-carved by volunteers in the Ames community. There are timed-entry tickets to attend the event that can be bought here. Ticket prices are discounted for students with an Iowa State ID and are free for volunteers.
Renee Rule, the director of guest services and events for Reiman Gardens, is excited for the ninth year of Spirits in the Gardens and thinks it will be entertaining for both new and repeat visitors.
“Since 2015, Spirits in the Gardens has evolved into a must-see event,” Rule stated. “Each year, we introduce exciting new elements, like hologram screens showcasing entertaining Halloween shorts, performances by various campus clubs and our popular Candy Factory with its fun candy slides. Plus, we feature more intricately carved pumpkins than ever! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, there’s always something fresh and fun to experience.”
In the upcoming weeks, volunteers will be needed to carve the pumpkins that are to be displayed later in the month. Volunteering is split into stenciling pumpkins and carving pumpkins.
This week’s volunteering is the “pre-carving” stage on Wednesday and Thursday. Those who sign up to volunteer will be given a white stencil to trace onto a pumpkin at the Gardens. Next week, Oct. 9 to 11, volunteers will be carving every pumpkin that has been drawn on. To sign up for a volunteer shift, click here.
Reiman Gardens needs your help to make this event a success and wants you to volunteer. Here is what students who sign up to volunteer should know:
“Folks who are registered to volunteer should bring their phones to sign in, and students should know that we understand they may need to leave early or arrive a little late based on class and bus schedules,” Rule stated. “We’ll be happy for any help they can provide with the time they have!”
For more information about Spirits in the Gardens, jack-o’-lantern sneak peeks and volunteering, click here.
