By Howard Pousner
hpousner@ajc.com

The Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Great Chefs of Atlanta Pumpkin-Carving Contest leaves the sharp objects – knives and power tools — to the pros. 

On Thursday night,[10/28] Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead chef (and defending champ) Victor Dagatan will take on Gwinnett Technical College chef instructor Andrew Miller, James Gregory Paine of Avante Catering and Tony Alberto of Mabuhay Store. 

The contest is  7-8 p.m. on the Great Lawn stage during Fest-of Ale, an event featuring autumn-themed specialty beers and wine. The carved pumpkins will be sold during a silent auction immediately afterwards.

 Garden admission: $15; $12 seniors and ages 3-17; free under 3. 1345 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-876-5859, atlantabotanicalgarden.org.