Fall at the Gardens 2023 Harvest Illuminated at the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens in Grand Junction Oct. 26th – Oct. 28.

Date/Time: OCT 26 AT 5 PM MDT – OCT 28 AT 9 PM MDT.

Fall at the Gardens: Harvest Illuminated Western Colorado Botanical Gardens

This signature fundraising event continues our partnership with Willy Tuz – renowned artist and carver from Food Network’s “Outrageous Pumpkins” and “Halloween Wars”. And, as in years past, brings together talented artists from around the world to create illuminated sculptures made entirely of pumpkins. Our carving team this year includes returning Food Network competitors and World Ice Art Champions, in addition to very talented artists local to Colorado. Harvest Illuminated is truly an unprecedented attraction, unrivaled on the Western Slope, and has grown exponentially since its inception in 2020.

Proceeds from the event will benefit STRiVE’s person-centered programs, serving children and adults with disabilities. These vital community resources help to ensure our most vulnerable population receives the developmental support they so desperately need. Our mission to support individuals and families has been a mainstay in Mesa County for over 50 years.

Willy Tuz (Grand Junction, Colorado) Is the Chef and Founder of Colorado Fruit Designs in Grand Junction. Food Network Finalist on Halloween Wars season 12 in 2022 and Outrageous Pumpkins season 1 in 2020. Tuz has been a professional culinary carver for more than 18 years and specializes in pumpkin carvings, sculpting fruit, vegetables and other foods into elaborate displays and outrageous carving centerpieces!