The identity of the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern remains a mystery until it is revealed during the annual Halloween Parade. Leading up to the event, the community is encouraged to guess who the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern might be, with clues often provided through local publications and in all the elementary schools in Rutland County.

All individuals who guess correctly will be entered into a drawing to win prizes.

The winner is given a place of honor during the parade with a distinctive jack-o’-lantern mask.

The winner may choose to ride on a float, walk, or make take or use another form of transportation that ensures that they are comfortable for the duration of the parade.

The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern is a cherished tradition in Rutland, Vermont, associated with the
town’s long-standing Halloween Parade.
The Rutland Halloween Parade, one of the oldest in the United States, began in 1960. It was
initiated by Tom Fagan, a local writer, and comic book enthusiast, who wanted to create a
community event that would bring together the town’s children and families in celebration of
Halloween. Over the years, the parade has grown significantly, becoming a central event in
Rutland’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands of spectators each year.
The Jack O’ Lantern was added to the parade festivities in 1961 as a way to honor individuals
who have made significant contributions to the community. The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern became
a way to highlight community leaders and volunteers who embody the spirit of Halloween and
community service.
Each year, the identity of the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern is kept a mystery until it is revealed during
the parade. This element of surprise adds to the fun with clues provided to the public to guess
the identity of the honoree. The tradition serves to recognize those who have worked behind the
scenes to make Rutland a better place, often focusing on individuals involved in community
service, particularly in areas related to youth engagement.
The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern has become an integral part of the Halloween Parade, symbolizing
the community’s appreciation for those who contribute to the town’s well-being and embody the
festive spirit of the holiday.

1. Community Involvement (Max of 10 Points):
   • Description: Recognizes the nominee’s consistent and impactful engagement in the community, including event organization, volunteering, and/or contributing to increased quality of life for residents of Rutland County. 
   • Scoring:
     • 0-2 pts: Minimal involvement; occasional participation in community events.
     • 3-5 pts: Regular participation or volunteering in community activities.
     • 6-8 pts: Leadership or key roles in multiple community events.
     • 9-10 pts: Exceptional leadership in organizing major community initiatives.
2. Youth Engagement (Max of 10 Points):
   • Description: Acknowledges the nominee’s active role in engaging youth, promoting positive activities, mentorship, and educational programs.
   • Scoring:
     • 0-2 pts: Limited engagement with youth.
     • 3-5 pts: Occasional mentorship or involvement in youth activities.
     • 6-8 pts: Consistent mentorship or leadership in youth programs.
     • 9-10 pts: Significant influence on youth through organized events or programs.
3. Goodwill and Kindness (Max of 10 Points):
   • Description: Celebrates acts of kindness, generosity, and goodwill within the community, especially those that promote inclusivity and support.
   • Scoring:
     • 0-2 pts: Infrequent acts of goodwill.
     • 3-5 pts: Moderate acts of kindness, recognized by some community members.
     • 6-8 pts: Regular and noticeable acts of goodwill, widely known in the community.
     • 9-10 pts: Exceptional and consistent acts of kindness, highly appreciated by the community.
4. Championing Inclusivity and Welcoming Community (Max of 10 Points):
   • Description: Highlights the nominee’s contributions to creating an inclusive and welcoming community where all members feel valued and respected.
   • Scoring:
     • 0-2 pts: Little to no involvement in promoting inclusivity.
     • 3-5 pts: Some efforts in advocating for inclusive practices.
     • 6-8 pts: Significant efforts in fostering a welcoming environment.
     • 9-10 pts: Exceptional leadership in creating an inclusive community.
5. Meaningful Impact (Max of 10 Points):
   • Description: Recognizes the nominee’s positive contributions to the community, particularly in leading efforts that address community challenges and creating opportunities for others.
   • Scoring:
     • 0-2 pts: Minimal impact on community challenges.
     • 3-5 pts: Moderate efforts with some positive contributions.
     • 6-8 pts: Significant impact in positive community change.
     • 9-10 pts: Exceptional leadership or transformational contributions to the community.

6. Number of Nominations (Max of 10 Points):

• Description: Reflects the level of community recognition and support for the nominee based on the number of nominations received. Scoring:
• 9-10 pts: Nominees in the top 10% in terms of number of nominations receive the maximum score.
• 7-8 pts: Nominees in the next 20% of nominations.
• 5-6 pts: Nominees in the middle 30% of nominations.
• 3-4 pts: Nominees in the lower 20% of nominations.
• 1-2 pts: Nominees in the bottom 20% of nominations.

Adjust for Ties: If multiple nominees receive the same number of nominations, they will receive the same score.

Total Score (Max of 60 Points):

The nominee with the highest total score across all categories will be honored as the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern, representing the best of Rutland’s community spirit and Halloween traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern award?

The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern award is an honor given annually to a community member in Rutland, Vermont. The award recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to community service, particularly in enhancing community-based opportunities and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for all residents.

2. How did the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern tradition begin?

The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern tradition is part of the Rutland Halloween Parade, which began in 1960. The parade, initiated by local writer Tom Fagan, has grown into a significant cultural event in Rutland. The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern was introduced later as a way to honor community leaders and volunteers who embody the spirit of Halloween and community service.

3. Who is eligible for the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern award?

As of 2024, nominees for the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern award can be residents of any location within Rutland County. Nominees must be 18 years or older and should demonstrate a strong commitment to community service, leadership, and inclusivity.

4. What criteria are used to select the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern?

The selection process is based on several criteria, each scored on a scale of 0-10 points:

• Community Involvement: Impactful engagement in community events and activities.
• Youth Engagement: Active role in mentoring and supporting youth.
• Good Samaritan Acts: Kindness and generosity within the community.
• Championing Inclusivity: Efforts to create an inclusive and welcoming environment.
• Meaningful Impact: Positive contributions during challenging situations.
• Number of Nominations: The level of community support for the nominee.

The nominee with the highest total score is honored as the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern.

5. Can I nominate someone for the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern award?

Yes, you can nominate someone by clicking on the link below and submitting your nomination, detailing their contributions to the community, particularly in the areas of service, leadership, and inclusivity. Nominations will be accepted until Sep. 30, 2024. Ensure the nominee meets the eligibility criteria, including being a resident of Rutland County and over 18 years old.

6. Can I nominate myself?

Yes, you can nominate yourself for the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern award. However, we encourage you to have friends and family nominate you as well to strengthen your nomination. To help with this, we’ve included some social graphics below that you can use to “campaign” for your nomination.

7. Does the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern have to be present to win?

Yes, the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern must be present at the parade to receive the award. If you are unable to attend the parade, you cannot be selected as the Mystery Jack.

8. Can the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern have friends and family join them in the parade?

Yes! The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern may invite a few family members or close friends to join them on the float during the parade.

9. How is the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern revealed?

The identity of the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern is kept a mystery until it is revealed during the annual Halloween Parade. Leading up to the event, clues are provided through local publications and in elementary schools across Rutland County, encouraging the community to guess the honoree’s identity.

10. Can I participate in the parade with the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern?

Yes! The public is welcome to join the float, either by walking, dancing, or riding. This is a great way to celebrate and be part of the tradition. If you wish to participate, you can contact Arwen at [email protected].

11. Who coordinates the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern portion of the parade?

Come Alive Outside, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting people with nature, coordinates the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern portion of the parade. They are supported by Green Mountain Approach and The Mint.

12. What happens to the Mystery Jack O’ Lantern during the parade?

The Mystery Jack O’ Lantern honoree is featured on a float and has the option to ride, walk, or choose another form of participation during the parade. Past honorees are also invited to join the float, continuing their involvement in this cherished tradition.

How to Nominate:

Click on the link below to submit your nomination. Nominations will be accepted until September 30, 2024. Don’t miss the chance to recognize someone who has made a significant impact in our community!