5 Places to Compost or Recycle Your Pumpkins in Northern Virginia

Give your gourd a second life at one of these NoVA locations.

As you start to switch out your Halloween pumpkins for Christmas lights, make sure those gourds are put to good use. Here’s where you can donate, compost, or smash your pumpkins in Northern Virginia.

Great Country Farms

November 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It’s the final day to get in on the Pumpkin Chunkin’ fun at Great Country Farms. The annual event includes plenty of smashing options that the whole family will love. The Pumpkin Drop Zone takes pumpkins nearly 40 feet in the air before tossing them – but beware of the splash zone. The event also includes a Pumpkin Zip Line, Silo Sploosh, and The Pumpkin “Wall of Death.” After the smashing, the pigs and cows get a tasty treat, and the rest is composted. 18780 Foggy Bottom Rd., Bluemont; $10-$14

Cox Farms

November 8 & 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sometimes the best thing to do with your pumpkin is just smash it. Fill your car with your unused pumpkins and wilting jack-o-lanterns and head to Cox Farms’ Pumpkin Madness. Pumpkins will be hurled into the pond by a trebuchet, squished by tractors, tossed at targets, and thrown onto spikes. 15621 Braddock Rd., Centreville; $25 for entrance to Fall Festival

City of Alexandria 

November 8–9, 15–16, times vary
Pumpkins, jack-o-lanterns, squash, and gourds of any kind can be dropped off for rescue at one of the city’s six farmers markets. Pumpkins that are uncut and unpainted will be donated to help feed local families with ALIVE! Alexandria. Produce with mold, paint, or impressive cut designs will be used to create compost. Multiple locations, free

Pumpkins for Pigs

This Northern Virginia nonprofit will use your pumpkin to help feed local pigs, goats, and llamas. There are multiple locations throughout NoVA, just make sure your pumpkin is paint free, and doesn’t have any toxic or inedible material used for decorations. Multiple locations, free

Pumpkins for the People

This nonprofit is trying to reduce the number of pumpkins that end up in landfills — which equals more than two billion pounds worldwide. With drop-off locations in DC and Virginia, locals can visit one of five Alexandria farmers markets to either donate or compost their pumpkins. Multiple locations, free

Feature image courtesy Piggins and Banks Pig and Animal Sanctuary