Ascend the scissor lift and toss a pumpkin off. Or grab a mallet and start pounding, or go pumpkin bowling. By smashing pumpkins, you'll help students in the Broad Ripple area get the tools and extracurricular programs they need - like robotics club, Lego club, science camps and arts programming.

The Pumpkin Smash is just part of the family-friendly fall festival hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Broad Ripple from 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 22 at Half Liter Beer & BBQ Hall. Free activities for kids include painting pumpkins and fun games, as well as a Silly Safari show at 3:30 PM. Everyone should dress in their most creative outfit for the costume parade!

Half Liter Beer & BBQ Hall is donating a portion of sales from food to the Kiwanis Club of Broad Ripple. The club supports science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) projects at IPS 43, 48, 55, 59, 91, Shortridge and Purdue Polytechnic.

"The Pumpkin Smash helps teachers and students by providing funding for technology, equipment and supplies in the schools," said Suzannah Hobley, Pumpkin Smash chair. "Strong schools make for strong communities, and the schools need our help."

An online auction (think travel, entertainment, art, dining, etc.) donated by local merchants and friends of Broad Ripple Kiwanis will raise additional funds so the club can expand the service it provides to the schools. Bidding opens October 15 on the club's website, brkc.org. Bids are accepted until 11:59 p.m. on October 22.

"There is no admission fee. But for a small fee, you can smash a pumpkin from a lift and watch it go splat.," said Hobley. " Or go pumpkin bowling, bid on an auction item, or just enjoy the day. It's going to be a fun day and a great way to support our community."

The details:

3rd Annual Pumpkin Smash

Sunday, October 22

2-6 p.m.

Half Liter Beer & BBQ Hall

5301 Winthrop Ave Suite B

Indianapolis, IN 46220