Halloween spirit is in the air and Painted Pumpkins are popping up all over Nevada City! From October 1–14, 2025, take part in the Nevada City Pumpkin Palooza Scavenger Hunt and discover vibrant, artistically painted pumpkins displayed at local businesses.
Search for your favorite pumpkin at one (or all!) of these participating locations: Treats, Nevada City Crystal & Glass, JJ Jackson, Java Johns, Nevada City Chocolate Shoppe, The Earth Store, Novak’s Menswear, City Hall, Fur Traders, Brothers Art & Antiques, Madrone, Utopian Stone, An Inner Sanctum, Nevada City Chamber of Commerce, Miners Foundry, First US Community Credit Union, and Tri-Counties Bank.
Found a favorite? Bid on it! Join us for Nevada City’s first Pumpkins Palooza Family Celebration & Pumpkin Auction at Miners Foundry Wednesday, October 15th, 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The painted pumpkins will make their way from the stores to the Foundry to be joined by many others – ready for bidding in both Silent and Live Auctions. From spooky and silly to beautiful and bold, these one-of-a-kind creations have been lovingly painted by talented Rotarians, local artists, and community members.
Don’t miss the Councilmember Challenge Auction!
See which City Councilmember’s painted pumpkin brings in the highest bid during a friendly “challenge” auction.
Come in Costume (or not!)
The celebration is free and open to all ages—costumes encouraged (but not required)! Whether you’re 5 or 95, there’s fun waiting for everyone.
Presented by:
The Rotary Club of Nevada City, in partnership with the City of Nevada City, the Nevada City Public Arts Commission, and the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce.
All proceeds support vital causes including global polio eradication, youth scholarships, community medical clinics, literacy programs, and much more.
A heartfelt thank you to all the amazing artists who participated in painting workshops or contributed their masterpieces from home. And to the Rotarians, friends, and Farmer John Drew who lovingly grew all the organic pumpkins at Bakbraken Acres.
Scan the QR code found at the store(s) or visit nevadacityrotary.org for more information.