The Arboretum at Penn State kicked off its annual Pumpkin Fest on Friday evening, welcoming visitors for two days of fall-themed activities, music, food and more.
After heavy rainstorms earlier in the day, the skies cleared for a seasonally crisp night one of the festival.
Lighted jack-o’-lanterns were the centerpiece of the festival’s opening, with judges evaluating pumpkins from seven age groups in five categories. Winners will be announced at noon on Saturday.
Pumpkin Fest continues from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday. Here’s the full schedule:
10–11 a.m. Story time with Schlow Centre Region Library Children’s Team at 10 and 10:30 a.m., featuring stories, songs, rhymes and movement centered on fun fall themes. Recommended for ages 2–6.
10 a.m.–noon Quiet hours and daylight strolling. An ideal time for visitors with young children or those with sensory issues to enjoy the jack-o’-lantern displays without all the festival noise and crowds.
10 a.m.–2 p.m. Chestnut husking with the American Chestnut Foundation near the Bee Observation Hive.
11 a.m.–noon Puppet show with Adam Swartz Puppets.
Noon Contest winners announced.
Noon–9 p.m. Food trucks and vendors on the North Lawn: BBQ by Clem, Farmstead Fusion, Gourmet Griddle Company, Idou Coffee Co., Kaleena’s, Rebelz Mobile Cuisine, Rosie’s Pierogies, The Cakeshop by Tati.
1–5 p.m. Roving magic and jokes with Charlie the Jester.
2–3 p.m. Puppet show with Adam Swartz Puppets.
2–6 p.m. Vendors and family-friendly exhibits by local program partners on the Esplanade.
4–7 p.m. Children’s activities: Mini gourd decorating and Pumpkin Fest printmaking on the Event Lawn; Pumpkin carnival games in Poplar Court; Gnome scavenger hunt in the Pollinator and Bird Garden; Gourd guessing in Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden.
4–8 p.m. Live pumpkin carving by the Pittsburgh Pumpkin Guy.
4–8 p.m. 21+ Pumpkin Patch for individuals at least 21 years old who purchase a $10 commemorative item. It will feature beverages for sale from Boal City Brewing and University Wine Company.
5–8 p.m. Music by Astral Shakedown
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