Pumpkins on the Plaza, an art exhibit and horror films

THE TALENTED students in the high school’s Visual Arts program never cease to amaze us with their creativity during the Pumpkins on the Plaza event. (Item file photo)

WAKEFIELD — Wakefield Memorial High’s Visual Arts Department is set to embrace the eerie atmosphere of Halloween with a multiple-night extravaganza over the next two weeks. Showcasing the talents of over 450 students, these events are open for all to enjoy.

On Thursday night, October 24, from 6 to 8 p.m., organizers invite the community to gather once again for ‘Pumpkins on the Plaza,’ a cherished tradition dating back to 2000. More than 300 intricately carved and illuminated pumpkins, crafted by WMHS Visual Artists, will grace the steps of the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library on Thursday night.

Attendees will have the opportunity to bring home a piece of the magic as the pumpkins will be available for the public to take starting at 8:15 p.m. Donations to WMHS Visual Arts are gratefully accepted throughout the evening, ensuring the continuation of this wonderful tradition. National Art Honor Society and Art Club students will also be selling food and face painting all evening.

Additionally, our Visual Art students have joined forces with the Arts Collaborative of Wakefield for the ‘Elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire Art’ Exhibit and Sale at the Albion Cultural Exchange (9 Albion St.) on Thursday, October 24 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. It includes an exhibit centered around the earthly elements, a joint exhibit showcasing paired creations by local writers and artists, and the 5×7 Small Works Fundraiser where all earnings benefit PAWS of Wakefield.  

Every artist is free to interpret the theme “Elements” in a distinctive manner, enabling them to convey their personal viewpoints, emotions, and experiences through visual art. The showcase includes a diverse range of artistic forms such as paintings, batik, ceramics, photography, fibers, and stained glass.

Finally, on Wednesday, October 30, the night before Halloween, is Fright Night, the annual student horror film festival at the Savings Bank Theater at WMHS (60 Farm St). The spirit of Halloween will come alive with the spine-chilling creations of the WMHSTV students. Join us for a matinee starting at 3 pm or the prime time show that starts at 7. Come hungry, because Susan Lacy and the culinary students will be serving Warrior Cafe pizza, cookies, popcorn, and famous whoopie pies at a special simulcast that will be happening in the cafe. Doors open at 6 and admission is just $7 at the door, offering an affordable and thrilling night out.

So, whether you’re enthralled with carved pumpkins, a fan of artistic marvels, a horror film enthusiast, or simply looking for some delightful evenings out with family and friends, Fright Week promises to enchant and captivate. 

Join in the fun on Thursday, October 24, and Wednesday, October 30 for an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community spirit.