Armstrong Celebrates 25 Years of Harvest Pumpkin Festival

The Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce is set to host the 25th annual Harvest Pumpkin Festival from October 3 to 13, 2024. This beloved community event, which has been a staple for 24 years, celebrates the vibrant colours of fall while fostering creativity and community spirit. The upcoming festival promises to be the largest to date, featuring a wide array of activities for both residents and visitors.

According to chamber executive director Patti Noonan, “Over 11 days of festivities, residents and visitors alike can enjoy free workshops, live music, local food, family activities, and the ever-popular Family Day on Saturday, October 11, at the fairgrounds.” The festival aims to provide something for everyone, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.

Festival Highlights and Activities

The Harvest Pumpkin Festival offers an exciting lineup of highlights this year. Family Day is set to be a standout event, featuring hands-on demonstrations, children’s activities, and seasonal fun. Participants can expect a full day dedicated to engaging entertainment suitable for all ages.

A variety of free workshops will be available throughout the festival, covering topics such as pickling, earring making, drumming, beeswax wraps, and painting. While these workshops are free, spots are limited, and early registration is advised.

Community events during the festival include the Okanagan Street Fall Block Party, square dancing, family movie nights, and a Barn Quilt Tour. Special evenings at local flower farms and pumpkin patches will also be part of the festivities, offering unique experiences for attendees.

Live entertainment will feature local favourite Ryley Booth at Bloom Flowers and national talent Doug Robb at Farmstrong Cider Co. Additionally, there will be outdoor movies, performances by Bubble Wonders and Kiki the Eco Elf, and magic shows presented by Fizbann Wizard.

Festival-goers can also look forward to signature activities such as the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In, where last year’s winner weighed in at an impressive 1,408 lbs, the largest pumpkin in British Columbia in 2024. The Great Pumpkin Launch will allow participants to witness pumpkins soaring into the sky, alongside creative costume displays.

Community Support and Future Aspirations

Noonan expressed excitement about the festival’s growth, stating, “Whether you’ve been coming for years or this is your first time, there’s no better year to experience the magic.” She emphasized that the Harvest Pumpkin Festival is deeply rooted in community and celebrates the fun of fall for all ages.

Chamber board director Marc Szarek acknowledged the crucial support received from various organizations over the years. He specifically thanked the Government of Canada for its contributions, stating, “Their support for more than 20 years has allowed the Harvest Pumpkin Festival to grow into the much-loved community tradition it is today.” Szarek also praised the efforts of the team at Armstrong Spallumcheen Parks and Recreation, noting their dedication as a vital component of the festival’s success.

The full activity schedule for the Harvest Pumpkin Festival can be found on the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce’s official website, where attendees can also register for workshops and explore additional details. As the festival approaches, the community looks forward to celebrating 25 years of tradition, creativity, and togetherness.