Old Oaks Pumpkin Sale Centers Neighborhood Gathering at Park Gazebo

Residents gathered at Old Oaks Park at 668 Wilson Ave. on Saturday, Oct. 3, for the annual Old Oaks Community Fall Pumpkin Sale and Fall Market, turning the neighborhood greenspace into an autumn gathering and civic fundraiser.

Staged around the park's central gazebo around 646 Wilson Ave., the event raises funds to support civic betterment and beautification across the near East Side historic district, according to the Old Oaks Civic Association. The green metal gazebo, featuring an "Old Oaks" plaque above its entryway amid mature trees and flowering garden beds, serves as a primary gathering hub for the community. Alongside seasonal markets, the pavilion hosts neighborhood activities including summer concerts, Fire Pit Fridays, and community cleanups.

Supplied through a partnership with Poston Farm, this year's market featured large orange and white pumpkins, stackable varieties, baby pumpkins, mums, decorative corn, and straw bales, accompanied by neighborhood artisans selling handmade goods.

In an interview with Pique Media, Old Oaks resident Jonathan DeZarn, who volunteered as the tally-man tracking purchases, credited the event's success to dedicated neighborhood leadership and volunteer labor. DeZarn praised Kristi Murray as the lead organizer who coordinated directly with the farm supplier and set item pricing, supported by organizer Kurt Hummel. He also commended cashiers Alan and Shannon for managing sales throughout the morning, alongside neighbors who arrived early to unload delivery trucks and arrange displays around the gazebo and park grounds.

Beyond raising financial support for neighborhood initiatives, DeZarn told Pique Media that the gazebo and pumpkin sale serve as an essential gathering point that reinforces community cohesion. He described the tradition as a welcoming space where longtime residents and newer neighbors connect in person, noting that organizers envision expanding participation while preserving the informal, grassroots spirit that defines the event.

An interview with organizer David Gray remains pending.