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Pumpkin Decorating Party Ideas

No-Carve Fall Fun for All Ages

Last Updated September 8, 2025

The fall season isn’t complete without pumpkins – but carving isn’t the only way to get creative! Hosting a pumpkin decorating party is the perfect way to spark imagination, keep things kid-friendly, and avoid the mess of scooping out pumpkin guts. From paint and stickers to dazzled designs, you’ll have a gourd-geous time bringing neighbors, classmates, or friends together. Best part? With SignUp, organizing your pumpkin party helpers is as easy as pie. 🥧

5 dogs dressed in Halloween costumes

Why Host a Pumpkin Decorating Party?

  • 🎨 No-carve = no knives → safe for all ages

  • 🌟 Endless creative options → paint, glitter, stickers, ribbons, and more

  • 🎉 Perfect for groups → schools, clubs, church events, or a neighborhood gathering

  • 📸 Insta-worthy results → pumpkins that shine on doorsteps and social feeds

Whether you’re planning a classroom activity or a big community bash, pumpkin decorating is a fun twist that guarantees smiles.




No-Carve Pumpkin Decorating Ideas

Ready to ditch the carving tools? Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:

  1. Painted Pumpkins
    Set up brushes, washable paints, stencils, and sponges. Encourage kids to create monsters, superheroes, or emoji-style pumpkins.

  2. Sticker Magic
    Stock up on themed stickers – think spooky bats, silly faces, or glitter stars. Bonus: no drying time required!

  3. Tape & Ribbon Designs
    Washi tape, glow-in-the-dark tape, or colorful ribbon can turn a plain pumpkin into a work of art.

  4. Bedazzled Beauties
    Provide rhinestones, sequins, or craft gems with glue dots. Sparkle + pumpkins = pure fall magic.

  5. Nature-Inspired Pumpkins
    Leaves, twigs, and acorns glued onto pumpkins make adorable fall-themed designs.




Pumpkin Decorating Contest Ideas 🎤🏆

Level up the fun with a friendly contest! Categories could include:

  • Funniest Pumpkin 😂

  • Most Creative Pumpkin 🎨

  • Spookiest Pumpkin 👻

  • Cutest Pumpkin 🧡

  • Best Team Effort (great for siblings or group projects)

Hand out small prizes – think candy, glow sticks, or themed ribbons.

Pumpkin decorating party clean up crew SignUp

Party Planning Tips 🎃

  • Set Up Craft Stations → Paint, stickers, and glue areas keep the chaos under control.

  • Cover Tables → Disposable tablecloths make cleanup a breeze.

  • Provide Drying Space → A safe spot for painted pumpkins to set while kids play games.

  • Snap Photos → Create a “pumpkin photo booth” for families to pose with their creations.

  • Use SignUp → Schedule helpers for setup, craft tables, snacks, and clean-up. (Less stress, more fun!)

Pumpkin decorating parties are a fantastic way to gather friends and family for a no-carve fall celebration. With simple supplies, creative contests, and a little organization help from SignUp, your event will shine brighter than a jack-o’-lantern on Halloween night!

You May Also Like:

Printable Fall Activity Sheets & Coloring Pages

Host the Ultimate Fall Craft Night

SignUp's Fall Activities Planning Center

About the Author

Photo of Tara McAdams   

Tara McAdams

Digital Marketing Manager, Content Strategist & Creator

Tara leads content strategy at SignUp and creates a variety of resources on a wide range of topics – including lifestyle trends, parent tips, prep for holidays, volunteer management, and event planning. More about Tara →