By Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
For 15 years, students and families in Mrs. Garrow’s and Mrs. Denomy’s kindergarten class at Indian Creek Road Public School (ICRPS) have gathered each fall for the beloved Pumpkin Rolling Event. What began as a fun activity has grown into a celebration of community, leadership, and generosity.
Each year, the kindergarten class, accompanied by their junior “Big Buddies,” walks to a nearby hill to roll pumpkins. Many Big Buddies previously participated in the event as kindergarten students and now return as leaders, guiding their younger peers through the tradition.
Adding to the excitement, retired ICRPS teacher Don Green joins the festivities in costume, driving a riding lawn mower with a trailer full of pumpkins for the “Pumpkin Parade.” Students follow behind, eagerly anticipating the chance to roll their pumpkins down the hill—a moment that has become a signature feature of the event.
Families are invited to participate, with parents, grandparents, and younger siblings joining the fun. Over the years, the celebration has expanded into a true community event, incorporating a canned food drive for Outreach for Hunger. Local real estate company Nest Realty also supports the event by donating pumpkins.
The tradition has recently extended its spirit of giving through a partnership with Charlotte’s Freedom Farm. Pumpkins from the event are donated to feed the farm’s animals, including pigs, goats, chickens, and cows. The farm’s founder visits the class to share how the pumpkins are used, and students are treated to videos of the animals enjoying their feast. This year, the class collected a record number of pumpkins, filling the farm’s truck twice.
The Pumpkin Rolling Event is one of many traditions celebrated across the Lambton Kent District School Board. It showcases the dedication of staff and the strength of community connections, creating lasting memories for students and families.