After the inaugural drive-through Night at the Pumpkin Patch was such a success in 2020, organizer Jill DeChello “never had a doubt in my mind I would do the pumpkin patch again.” DeChello of North Haven Magazine is again teaming up with The Landing to offer the family-friendly event, which will benefit the North Haven Rotary Club.

“There are just some events that are so well received that they become yearly activities. This was that kind of event,” said DeChello. “I love pulling all the businesses and residents together.”

In addition to support from The Landing, where DeChello works with Donna Naparstek, Pat Nuzzolillo, and Chris Sheehan, the event is finding success from many other businesses and organizations in town, including Larry Lazaroff of Arnold’s Jewelers; Stop & Shop, which donates pumpkins; and Keegan Materials, which donates sandbags.

Heather Cousins of Mike’s Automotive coordinates use of the company’s flatbed truck to transport pumpkins. Jeff DeLuca of Infinite Nutrition will be leading a troupe of dancing zombies and Jennifer Napolitano and Ramona Edridge of Design House Interiors are also key players.

“They are the best sports and help with everything,” said DeChello. “I always start with Larry at Arnold’s Jewelers, who sees me, laughs, and says, ‘Give me a minute and I’ll get my check book.’ Everyone that I reach out to responses positively.”

The 2021 pumpkin carving contest will be sponsored by new branch of Guilford Savings Bank in North Haven and DeChello said “we are working on really cool prizes.” Those interested in entering carved pumpkins should drop them off at The Landing on Wednesday, Oct. 20.

Those driving through the Night at the Pumpkin Patch will not only see displays of pumpkins, but displays by The Daytime Gardeners, the Historical Society, the North Haven Memorial Library, and Diamond Zone. There will also be different characters, inflatables, and more.

“This year’s Pumpkin Patch is going to be a little different. I have three very special witches and a greeter that will definitely set the mood, rolling fog, and I can’t tell you anymore—you need to come see for yourself,” said DeChello. “I will, of course, reprise my role as the Spider Queen, with Benjamin, my giant spider and maybe his spider siblings.”

While many businesses and organizations have already agreed to sponsor, donate, or volunteer, DeChello is always looking for more help. She is looking for donations of hay bales and to borrow items such as laser lights and seasonal inflatables. She is still looking for a DJ to volunteer for the event as well. Sponsor names are listed throughout the drive-through.

“I noticed people taking the time to read the names of the sponsors or to wave at the characters that they knew, which means a lot,” DeChello said.

Volunteers are needed for set up, cleanup, and during the event. Students can receive community service hours for their volunteer work. Volunteer positions include characters, singers, dancers, builders, and more.

“It really does take a village to make a Pumpkin Patch,” said DeChello. “It warms my heart that so many people reach out to help me, starting with The Landing, who blindly allowed me to do it in the first place.”

DeChello enjoys organizing events such as this for many reasons. As a “big kid at heart,” she not only enjoys dressing up, but seeing people enjoy the events and the community come together to make them happen. She is also honored to support the North Haven Rotary Club.

“Who doesn’t appreciate living in a town with so much kindness and compassion for others? Our town is special,” said DeChello. “It is such a humbling experience to help our town, to help anyone, really. For me, there is not a better feeling in the world to see people smile because of something that I could do.

“[F]or me, I want to make fun,” added DeChello. “My original reason for doing the event was to promote kindness to each other and that goal for me will never change. The Rotary has the same goal. I enjoy working with them because they support so many of the non-profits in town. It’s a great group of people with the same goal of helping our town.”

A Night at the Pumpkin Patch will take place on Friday, Oct. 22 and Saturday, Oct. 23 at The Landing, 201 Clintonville Road, North Haven, from 5 to 8 p.m. The suggested donation of $5 per car benefits the North Haven Rotary Club. For information, to donate, or to volunteer, contact Jill DeChello at 203-248-0076, 203-623-5457, or wincmarket@aol.com.