FESTIVAL | Grinning gourds

The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular returns for its 10th year Oct. 17-18. Inspired by a similar festival for professional artists in Providence, Rhode Island, the Springfield celebration will feature at least 2,014 pumpkins, hand-carved by local residents of all skill levels during the Carve for the Carillon event held the previous weekend. Pumpkins will be illuminated and displayed in Washington Park surrounding the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon and the Washington Park Botanical Garden. Other seasonal attractions include a tree of lights, carillon performances, spooky music, lighting and effects. Food trucks and other vendors will offer food for purchase. Event proceeds support renovation of the carillon landscape. For more information, visit carillon-rees.org.