The Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits’ annual “Be Our Guest” luncheon, which took place Friday at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose, is where the advocacy group bestows its annual Impact Awards. But the event is better known for the decorated pumpkins created by elected officials and community leaders — or their staffs — to auction off in a fundraiser.

The decorations range in complexity from pumpkins that are beautifully painted or adorned with ribbons to elaborate dioramas where the gourd itself is almost incidental. And like many times in the event’s history, this year’s pumpkins were a mix of creative whimsy and serious messages. • A pumpkin decorated by San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan's office, titled "Mahan Mayhem 2026" depicts the two major sporting events coming to Levi's Stad

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