Media Contact:
McHenry County Department of Health
Nick Kubiak, Public Information Officer

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL – The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH), in coordination with McHenry County College’s Green Living Expo, will host a pumpkin smash composting event on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., or until the composting container is filled. The event will take place inside the McHenry County College gym and outside in parking lot B at 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake.

Residents are encouraged to bring their pumpkins, gourds, mums, and corn stalks for composting. All non-biodegradable decorations, including candles, glow sticks, ribbons, and googly eyes, must be removed before disposal. Painted pumpkins will be accepted.

The Green Living Expo showcases more than 85 local businesses and organizations offering earth-friendly products, services, and educational experiences. Visitors can explore exhibits focused on energy conservation, waste reduction, nature education, and sustainable lifestyles.

For more information about the Green Living Expo, visit the Green Living Expo webpage or contact the McHenry County College Sustainability Center at (815) 479-7765 or sustainability@mchenry.edu.

For additional details about MCDH’s pumpkin smash and other MCDH recycling events, contact Kelli Boeckmann, Solid Waste Manager, at (815) 334-4585, or visit mcdh.link/solid-waste.

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