An entry in last year’s pumpkin carving contest. (Photo provided)
October 27, 2025
SIU University Honors, Craft Shop host pumpkin carving for Dome Glow
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Sharpen your creative skills as Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s University Honors Program and the SIU Craft Shop host a free pumpkin carving session on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
The finished projects will then be part of the third annual Jon Davey Memorial Dome Glow on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 31-Nov. 1.
The pumpkin carving is open to the public, including SIU students, registered student organizations, faculty, staff and alumni, said Elizabeth Donoghue, honors program assistant director. She noted that one of last year’s best entries was from one of Davey’s former students — a cluster of three pumpkins making Egyptian pyramids. As it was dropped off, he noted, “It’s my last assignment for Dr. Davey,” Donoghue said.
Davey, a longtime professor in the SIU School of Architecture, died in 2023.
Pumpkin carving time
Pumpkin carving sessions will be in the Craft Shop, located in the Student Center’s lower level, from 3-4:30 p.m. and 4:30-6 p.m., although people may stay for both sessions.
Beginning today (Oct. 27), pumpkins will be available in the honors office for pickup throughout the week, and they will also at the Craft Shop on Wednesday. People may also drop off carved pumpkins in the honors office, which is in Morris Library, Room 180, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Entries may be made individually or as a team to compete in one of three categories:
- Architecture pumpkins — inspired by architectural or cultural landmarks.
- Memory pumpkins — carved in memory of a loved one or meaningful story.
- Creative category — original designs that surprise, inspire and shine.
At the Dome Glow
The Dome Glow is from 6-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Buckminster Fuller Dome Home, located near the intersection of Forest Avenue and Cherry Street in Carbondale. The suggested donation is $5.