CHICAGO (WLS) -- Illinois is the largest pumpkin producing state, so you have plenty of options for decorating your home this fall. While many choose to carve large varieties for Halloween jack-o-lanterns, there are other types of gourds to choose from. Red Warty Thing, Hooligan, and Long Island Cheese are a few of the different versions available at your local garden stores.
Chris McKellar from Chalet Landscape, Nursery, and Garden Center visited ABC7 Eyewitness News to show a few creative ways to use pumpkins in your decorations.
Name of event: Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade
Saturday, Oct. 24
1-2 p.m. (check-in for costumed pets at noon)
Chalet Landscape, Nursery and Garden Center, 3132 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, Ill.
Admission/ticket Prices: Free
Deadline to register: Spectators don't need to register; participants need to register in-store or by phone, 847-256-0561