PUMPKIN PRIDE. Artisan Forge Studios is holding a pumpkin decorating fundraiser that will go towards UWEC's PRIDE program. (Photo via Pexels)

In support of the Physical Activity and Recreation for Individuals with Disabilities in the Eau Claire area (PRIDE) Dance program, Eau Claire’s Artisan Forge Studios is hosting a fall festival fundraiser from Saturday, Oct. 22 ,to Saturday, Oct. 29.

Everyone is welcome. The festival kicks off with a pumpkin decorating contest and party on Oct. 22 at the studios. Pumpkins are being donated by Bryan's Pumpkins, and all carving tools and decorations are provided. Volunteers from PRIDE will be available to help participants work on their designs. 

From Oct. 25-28, all crafts will be on display at the studios throughout the week. Members of the public can purchase ballots to vote for their favorite pumpkin(s).

"I would love to see the PRIDE program grow," said one of the event hosts, Kelly Speros. "This is kind of a way to raise awareness and put a little spotlight and give a reward to the (volunteers) that are working so incredibly hard."

On Saturday, Oct. 29, the studios will host a lighting ceremony with music, food, face painting, and more – costumes are encouraged! The ceremony starts at 5pm, and after lighting the pumpkins, celebrity judges will announce the winners and present awards at 7pm.  

All funds raised go towards the PRIDE Dance program run by UWEC kinesiology students and faculty. 

Learn more about this program by going to uwec.edu.