Pumpkin Composting Program

Join us on Saturday, November 8th from 12pm-3pm at the Sun Prairie Community Gardens (1320-1350 Linnerud Dr.) for pumpkin smashing games and treats while diverting waste from the landfill by returning your pumpkins back to the ground through composting!

Don’t trash it – smash it! This free to attend event invites community members of all ages to bring their leftover jack-o-lanterns, gourds, squash & pumpkins to participate in a variety of smashing games including pumpkin bowling, pumpkin free-throw & pumpkin piñata. Other features of this event include:

  • A delicious selection of baked goods from local bakery, Gathered Goods.
  • Resources and information from Green Box Compost and Sustain Dane on residential compost services in Sun Prairie, and the many benefits of this practice.
  • Tours of the newly planted community orchard.

This event will also be collecting donations for the Sunshine Place food pantry, click here for more information about acceptable items.

Webpage

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the city hosting a Pumpkin Smash? The City of Sun Prairie is committed to providing opportunities for its community to reduce the amount of waste sent to the landfill by diverting food waste such as pumpkin scraps to compost piles. 

Can I bring a gourd or squash? All pumpkins, squash, and gourds (i.e. jack-o-lanterns, decorative pumpkins, decorative gourds) are acceptable. Please remove any stickers, candles, or lights from pumpkins before dropping them off for composting.

Are painted pumpkins accepted? Yes, painted pumpkins are acceptable in this program.

How should I prepare my pumpkin or squash for smashing? Please remove stickers, candles, and any inorganic materials from the pumpkin before bringing it to the event. 

Can I drop off pumpkins even if I don't want to participate in pumpkin smashing? Absolutely!

I'm unable to attend the event, is there another way to compost my pumpkin? Yes, the Recycle Center is open for drop offs however a permit is required. Visit their webpage for more information.

Questions? 

Hannah Best | Sustainability Program Coordinator

Email Hannah (608) 886-2399

Thank you for doing your part to reduce waste in Sun Prairie!