Shannon Litz/Nevada Appeal
Nearly 800 pumpkins were delivered Friday for the 19th annual Seeliger Elementary School Pumpkin Patch and Carnival today.
"It really unites the community," said fifth-grade teacher Susan Lowther. "It's something they look forward to every year."
In addition to picking out the perfect jack-o-lantern, families also can participate in a variety of activities including a dunk tank, a hot-air balloon, carnival games and a raffle.
Funds raised are divided among the classrooms at the school. "It's a nice addition to the classrooms," said third-grade teacher Karen Collier. "It's just a little extra that helps a lot."
Collier has helped organize or attended every pumpkin patch since the first year.
This year, she served as the chairwoman of the committee to organize the fundraiser.
"I had a great committee this year that help me," she said. "It's all come together."
And the weather seems to be cooperating as well. After snowfall and winter-like temperatures earlier in the week, today's forecast is in the upper 60s. "It should be perfect," Lowther said.
The students participated in a cake decorating contest and those cakes will be on display today as well. "It's just a fun day to bring your family," Collier said.
Last year was the first for new principal Paula Zona. "It was a sight to behold," she said.