BOONE — High Country families are invited to attend "The Great Parent to Parent Pumpkin Palooza!" on Saturday, Oct. 31, from noon to 3 p.m. The free, family-centered community event will take place at Appalachian State University’s Levine Hall of Health Sciences, located at 1179 State Farm Road in Boone. Hosted by App State’s Parent to Parent Family Support Network of the High Country, the palooza aims to foster connection, belonging, and support among families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs, while also welcoming the broader community to join the festivities.
The afternoon promises a variety of activities suitable for all ages. Attendees can look forward to jump houses, creative pumpkin painting, and face painting. Food trucks will be on-site, alongside music to set a festive atmosphere. A costume parade and contest are also planned, encouraging families to arrive dressed for Halloween fun. Beyond the seasonal celebration, the event provides a valuable opportunity for families to meet others, strengthen community connections, and discover a local network of support.
Cassie McQuilling, App State’s Growing Well program coordinator, highlighted that "The Great Parent to Parent Pumpkin Palooza! is about more than celebrating Halloween." She explained that it serves as an opportunity for families to unite, have fun, foster relationships, and experience the sense of connection and belonging that arises from being part of a supportive community. This sentiment underscores the primary goal of the gathering: to create an inclusive space for families to interact and feel supported.
Families are encouraged to come in costume and participate in all the scheduled activities. Admission to "The Great Parent to Parent Pumpkin Palooza!" is free for all attendees. Food and crafts will be available while supplies last, adding to the day's enjoyment. For those seeking more information or details on registration, the Parent to Parent Family Support Network of the High Country can be reached by emailing [email protected].
The Parent to Parent Family Support Network of the High Country operates as a program of App State’s Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness. Its mission is to serve parents and families who are raising children and youth with special healthcare needs across seven counties in northwestern North Carolina. The network achieves this by providing essential peer support, educational resources, navigation assistance, and opportunities for meaningful connection among families facing similar challenges. Events such as the Pumpkin Palooza are integral to fostering these inclusive spaces, allowing families to relax, have fun, and feel supported within their community.
The successful organization of this community celebration is made possible through the contributions of various community partners and dedicated volunteers. These individuals and groups are assisting by providing necessary supplies, facilitating activities, and contributing other vital resources, all working together to ensure a welcoming and memorable experience for local families. The Palooza offers a welcoming opportunity for everyone to celebrate the season, forge new connections, and enjoy an afternoon of Halloween festivities together.
