When it comes to pumpkins, most people think of cozy fall treats like pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pies, or Halloween jack-o’-lanterns. But at Boston University, pumpkins serve a different—and far messier—purpose.
Each year, the BU Physics Department takes the spirit of the season to the next level with their iconic Pumpkin Drop, where rotting pumpkins are transformed into tools of scientific exploration. Yes, you read that right! If your Halloween pumpkins are wasting away on your doorstep, consider donating them to BU, where students throw them from the roof of the Metcalf Science Center—all in the name of science.
A Tradition That Defies Gravity
The annual Pumpkin Drop is more than just a quirky event—it’s an educational experience that draws crowds of curious spectators. On October 30, 2024, over 30 pumpkins filled with various substances were hurled from the roof of the Metcalf Science Center, plummeting 70 feet to the plaza below. As these pumpkins met their explosive ends, they offered real-world lessons on gravitation, velocity, and energy transitions—from potential energy to kinetic explosions.
Adding to the festivities, physics students performed live demonstrations before and after the pumpkins’ dramatic descent, making complex scientific concepts accessible and fun for all ages, according to BU Today.
More Than Just a Drop
But the Pumpkin Drop isn’t only about smashed pumpkins and science. The 2024 event was a celebration of fall and community spirit that included:
- Costume contests with creative outfits adding a touch of Halloween flair.
- A giant pumpkin weight-guessing game, with prizes for the closest guess.
- Cider and fall treats served to keep attendees warm and festive.
According to BU Today, the event, which returned in 2023 after a three-year hiatus, has quickly reclaimed its status as a crowd favorite. Each year, it draws students, faculty, and families eager to watch science meet seasonal fun in the most spectacular way.
With its blend of education, entertainment, and seasonal charm, the Pumpkin Drop has become a cherished fall tradition at Boston University. So, if you have an aging pumpkin you’re ready to part with, don’t toss it in the trash—donate it to BU’s Physics Department instead. After all, what better way to bid farewell to your Halloween pumpkin than to let it go out with a bang?
