DALLAS—Over the last few years, Pumpkin Nights has become a popular event for young people in the Dallas-Fort Worth area

Tiffany Truong, an Arlington, Texas, native, recently moved back to the state that she grew up in.

“I moved back home after living in Vermont for a year,” Truong said. “I was studying out of state when I realized I’m much more family oriented and enjoyed living in the suburbs.”

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, when many community events were shuttered to slow the spread of disease, public events are once again offering residents the opportunity to gather around, meet and celebrate even such simple things as the changing of the seasons.

“The suburbs have a nice balance to them,” Truong said. “They’re able to bring the best of two worlds together.”

Pumpkin Nights, which ran from Sept. 22-Oct. 31 in Dallas, offers a case study in how simple things can bring joy to a lot of people. Whether you’re taking your kids out after a long week at school or enjoying a night out with friends, there is probably something you’ll enjoy at the event.

“​​This right here feels like I’m in a movie,” Truong said.

Pumpkin Nights seemed to have that effect on a lot of people. From kids to adults, laughter and memories were being created all around the area as if it was coming from a movie plot.

“One thing I can say that moving away has taught me is that company is special,” Truong said. “The right people always make things much better, and I feel like many people away from home are always looking for connections, especially immigrants.”

Pumpkin Nights is notable for the diversity of people showing up and how people of such diverse backgrounds learn they have quite a few things in common. One thing people appear to share is an appreciation for a good night filled with fun and laughter.

“I’m here with my friend and her family tonight after a long day of college and fun,” Truong said. “My friend works really hard so that her family and friends that are far away from their home countries can feel connected to something greater than themselves, and she was able to get 20 people to show up.”

Truong said she saw how community, family and friendship come together so that things often taken for granted in daily life are actually refreshing and special.

“Everyone should try to romanticize their lives,” Truong said. “It’s as simple as noticing how the birds chirp in the morning or jamming out to your favorite songs while driving to school or work.”