Buddies Not Bullies is excited to return to the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Pumpkin Palooza for another day of fall fun, family activities, and community connection.

Stop by the Buddies Not Bullies booth for our free pumpkin-painting activity for kids. Children can choose a pumpkin, paint their own creation, and leave it with us to dry while they explore the festival.

Last year, more than 100 children joined us to paint pumpkins—and we ran out! This year, we hope to have even more pumpkins available so more children can participate.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month, making Pumpkin Palooza a great opportunity for Buddies Not Bullies to connect with local families while sharing an important message: kindness, respect, communication, empathy, and healthy relationship skills can be taught, practiced, and strengthened.

Pumpkin Palooza traditionally fills downtown Washington with family-friendly activities such as pumpkin contests, trick-or-treating, games, entertainment, food, and activities hosted by local organizations and businesses. The Washington Area Chamber of Commerce has not yet released the complete 2026 schedule, so additional event details will be added as they become available.

There is no charge to participate in the Buddies Not Bullies pumpkin-painting activity.