Hillcrest’s Fall Celebration Brings Warmth, Laughter, and Community to the Season

As the crisp autumn air settled over Fergus Falls last night, students, staff, and families gathered for one of the school’s most beloved traditions, the Fall Festival and Pumpkin Carving Contest. What began years ago as “Mr. Jahrs’ Pumpkin Day” took on a new form this year, blending time-honored fun with a fresh twist of fellowship and creativity.

Student Relations Coordinator Dawn Synstelien led the evening, introducing a new community-building event she’s calling “Souper Sundae.” “It’s not replacing monthly dorm dinners,” Dawn shared, “but part of an ongoing effort to build community and mix the generations.” Each month, students are hosted in local homes for dinner, strengthening ties between Hillcrest’s families and the student body. Once a quarter, however, students, staff, and local families gather at school, where crockpots of soup and ice cream sundaes are a warm reminder of power of shared meals and meaningful conversation.

This month, students met in the Union where laughter, conversation, and the aroma of homemade soups filled the air. Students moved from games to pumpkin carving, to a time of food and connecting, talking with families, teachers, and classmates, reflecting Hillcrest’s heartbeat of discipleship through relationship.

The highlight of the night was the Pumpkin Carving Contest, where creativity reigned. From intricately carved faces to comical designs, students worked side-by-side, celebrating the simple joy of creating together. A Tiny Pumpkin Hunt added an extra dose of fun, with prizes for those sharp enough to spot the hidden treasures scattered around the Union.

Games filled the space with energy and laughter, but it was the spirit of the night that truly stood out, a reminder of why Hillcrest values community so deeply. “It was a night of connection,” said Synstelien. “We laughed a lot, enjoyed great food, and saw students and families building the kind of friendships that make this place feel like home.”

As pumpkins glowed and spoons clinked against bowls, the Fall Festival became more than just an event, it was a celebration of the blessing of belonging. In a season that points to God’s abundant provision, Hillcrest’s annual pumpkin carving night once again reflected His faithfulness.