Fall is coming to life in Franklin County, and Alabama 4-H is hosting a pumpkin carving and decorating photo challenge through the Franklin County Extension.

Students are to construct a pumpkin-centric fall display or carve a pumpkin and take a picture to send in as submission.

“This is a great opportunity for some family time while showing others your creativity and artistic talents,” said 4-H regional Extension agent Vanessa Roberts.

Students ages 9-18 are allowed to use hay bales, a variety of pumpkins, flowers or whatever will help their display stand out. Students do not already have to be involved with 4-H to participate in the contest.

The display must be appropriate for a family-friendly event and feature some form of recognition of 4-H in the display. There will be an award for first place, and pictures of all displays will be shared on the 4-H Facebook page.

Franklin County Extension Director Katernia Cole-Coffey said it is always fun to see what types of designs students come up with in contests like this.

“We have a lot of really creative students, so we usually see a lot of really cool designs,” Cole-Coffey said.

Cole-Coffey said the Franklin County Extension Office has done photo contests in the past, but this one adds a new twist. She said participating in events like this teaches students pride in their work and the need to work hard at everything.

“With everything you do, you always want to put your best foot forward,” Cole-Coffey said. “They learn to do their best while also being creative.”

Cole-Coffey said this event also opens students up to new hobbies and potential careers, since they are required to work with photography and design.

Entrants need to be sure to include their name, their family or business that supports 4-H and the name of their county.

Pictures of displays can be sent to Roberts at vnr0001@aces.edu. The deadline for submission is Oct. 30.