The jack-o'-lantern going soft on the front step has one more job in Deerfield Beach. On Friday, Nov. 6, the city is hosting a Pumpkin Smash before its next free Movie Under the Stars, and every pumpkin that gets smashed will be hauled off and composted rather than thrown out with the trash.

The evening is at the Quiet Waters Athletic Field, 4200 W. Hillsboro Blvd. Gates open at 6 p.m., and that first hour is for the pumpkins. Families bring their leftover Halloween pumpkins and break them up on the field. Filthy Organics then collects the pieces and composts them.

Then the movie

At 7 p.m. the screen lights up with The Wild Robot, the animated film about a robot stranded on a wild island who learns to raise an orphaned gosling. It is rated PG.

Admission is free. The city is handing out free popcorn while it lasts, and a food truck will be on the field selling dinner. Bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on.

The night is part of Deerfield Beach's Movies in the Park series, and the full lineup of upcoming screenings is posted on the city's Movies in the Park page.

A busy few days in Deerfield Beach

The movie is the start of a full stretch for families in town. The next morning, Saturday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m., the city cuts the ribbon on the rebuilt playground at Pioneer Park, 217 NE Fifth Ave. The new playground has inclusive equipment, slides and sensory play features, and the unveiling is free.

The following Wednesday, Nov. 11, the city holds its Veterans Day ceremony at 9 a.m. at the Johnny L. Tigner Community Center, 445 SW Second St., with patriotic tributes and guest speakers. It is free and open to the public, and the city suggests arriving early for a seat.

How to go

Pumpkin Smash and Movie Under the Stars, Friday, Nov. 6, Quiet Waters Athletic Field, 4200 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach. Gates and the Pumpkin Smash at 6 p.m., The Wild Robot at 7 p.m. Free. Bring your leftover pumpkins and something to sit on. City information: 954-480-4200.

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