It's Pumpkin Armada Weekend on Heart Pond

Halloween’s happening in Chelmsford from 6 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31, but area pumpkins are going to get a workout long before then.

The annual Pumpkin Armada is coming once again to Heart Pond just off Acton Road at sundown on Saturday, Oct. 26.

Over 200 illuminated pumpkins are expected to light up the surface of the water, but everyone is welcome to bring their own 6 to 8” gourd to help raise the count.

For four years, the event has been held by the Chelmsford Open Space Stewardship (COSS) to celebrate a piece of open space in Chelmsford and encourage year-round stewardship of those open spaces as the weather gets colder while also having some Halloween fun.

"The Pumpkin Armada is a great way for families to enjoy a free and fun activity outside right here in town,” said COSS lead steward Phil Stanway. “It's something to do that is a little scary and eerily beautiful at the same time and perfect for people of all ages, even if you just was to drive past the pond later at night to see the jack-o-lanterns on the pond." 

It costs nothing to participate and Girl Scout Troop 66322 will have a bake sale complete with pizza and beverages at the event.

All pumpkins will be donated to Sunday’s Haunt for the Cure event at the Paul Center.

More information on COSS can be found on their Facebook Page.