Hundreds of pumpkins will be on display Wednesday at Algonquin Road Public School in Sudbury as part of the school’s annual “spooky” event, a tradition that dates back 20 years.

More than 230 intricately carved pumpkins will be illuminated in the darkened gym. Haunting music and Halloween characters will complete the event.

On Tuesday, students in grades 4-8 spent two hours carving their own jack-o-lanterns.

“We have a lot of parents who come and help us. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the kids,” said Petra Demeyere, the school’s resource teacher, who has been organizing the event since the beginning.

“I just like seeing kids having fun and doing something different…It’s a good community builder and a good outreach to parents and families at our school.”

Demeyere notes that the event fosters connections between students, parents and teachers, creating a sense of belonging and unity within the school community.

“The kids each have their own pumpkin carving design that they put on the pumpkin. Then they make holes in their pumpkin. They take the design out, then they use a little pumpkin sauce and they create their own pumpkin sculptures. “Children can simply explore their creative sculpting techniques,” says the teacher.

6th grader Robbie Mallory says he enjoys carving pumpkins every year.

“I think it’s amazing because we’re the only school that does it every year. I have a lot of fun here,” he said.

Classmate Tatum Banora agrees, calling the event “fun.”

“I think this will put out the fire and better than anyone else. We’ve been doing this for a few years,” he said.

Demeyere adds: “Motivation is pleasure. It’s above all a question of pleasure.”