INDIANA – As October brings out the usual assortment of giant skeletons, inflatable ghosts, and carved jack-o’-lanterns, residents across the region are beginning to notice a unique addition to neighborhood front porches: purple pumpkins.
While they might look like a colorful twist on traditional fall decor, these vibrant gourds carry a much deeper, more personal meaning. They are part of the national Purple Pumpkin Project, a grassroots movement dedicated to raising awareness for epilepsy, a neurological condition characterized by recurring seizures.
Sparks of Conversation
The concept behind the display is simple yet impactful. When neighbors spot a bright purple pumpkin on a porch, it naturally sparks curiosity and opens the door to conversations about a condition that affects millions of Americans, including children, parents, and neighbors.
The initiative began in 2012 when a Connecticut father, Ron Lamontagne, wanted to raise awareness following his young son’s epilepsy diagnosis. Driving past a pumpkin patch with his family, he conceived the idea of painting pumpkins purple to get people talking. After sharing the concept on Facebook, it quickly blossomed into a nationwide awareness campaign.
How to Get Involved
Participating in the project is simple and budget-friendly. Families can pick up a standard pumpkin from a local farm, grocery store, or patch, and coat it in purple paint. Many households turn it into a family activity, using the opportunity to teach children about empathy and support for those facing daily health challenges.
The Epilepsy Foundation is actively encouraging participation in the 2026 Purple Pumpkin Project, inviting communities to display purple pumpkins, share their stories, and support fundraising efforts. More details can be found on the official Purple Pumpkin Project website.
Whether families go all out with elaborate displays or keep things simple with a few decorations on the steps, this October brings a chance to support affected families—and perhaps add a purple pumpkin of your own to the front porch.
