Coastal Car Wash and Harbor’s Choice Laundry is hosting its first ever pumpkin decorating competition. Painting, carving, or accessorizing, any form of decorating is allowed as long as the result is gourd-eous enough for the judge's panel. Judges include Tracy Warlick of Bangor Savings Bank, Miss Maine Emissary Katie Cunningham and a third, undecided candidate.  

Participants have a chance to take home prizes in three categories: Spookiest, Funniest and Most Unique. A kid’s prize will also be available.  

Owner Terri Herald credited the “creative energy” of new manager Amy Balsdon for the idea and said the business will be doing more holiday-themed events. “We like to be involved in the community.” 

Pumpkins can be dropped off for registration at the laundromat on Oct. 28, 29 and 30, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The final judging will be at 10 a.m. Oct. 31. Trick-or-treaters can also pop in on Halloween starting at 5 p.m. for candy until it runs out!