Armstrong’s 25th Harvest Pumpkin Festival Kicks Off October 3

UPDATE: The highly anticipated **25th annual Harvest Pumpkin Festival** in **Armstrong** is set to commence from **October 3 to October 13**. This year’s celebration promises to be the biggest yet, with **11 days** of engaging activities aimed at uniting the community and showcasing the beauty of fall.

Festival-goers can expect a vibrant lineup of events, including **free workshops**, live music, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Chamber executive director **Patti Noonan** emphasized, “From the Straw and Stroll Scarecrow Decorating Challenge to artisan workshops and concerts, the festival offers something for everyone.”

Key highlights include:

– **Family Day on October 11**: A full day packed with hands-on demonstrations, entertainment, and seasonal fun.
– **Free Workshops**: Learn skills like pickling, earring making, and painting (limited spots available, registration required).
– **Community Events**: Join in the Okanagan Street Fall Block Party, Square Dancing, and Family Movie Nights, alongside special nights for locals at flower farms and pumpkin patches.
– **Live Entertainment**: Enjoy performances from local talent **Ryley Booth** at Bloom Flowers and national star **Doug Robb** at Farmstrong Cider Co., plus outdoor movies and captivating acts like **Bubble Wonders** and **Kiki the Eco Elf**.
– **Signature Activities**: Witness the thrilling Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In, where last year’s winner tipped the scales at an impressive **1,408 lbs**, and the Great Pumpkin Launch, featuring soaring pumpkins and vibrant costumes.

“This is a year unlike any other to experience the magic,” said Noonan. “The Harvest Pumpkin Festival is rooted in community and is truly fun for all ages.”

The festival is supported by the **Government of Canada**, with board director **Marc Szarek** expressing gratitude for their unwavering assistance over the past **20 years**. “Their support has allowed the Harvest Pumpkin Festival to grow into the beloved community tradition it is today,” Szarek stated.

As the festival gears up, attendees are encouraged to check the full activity schedule available through the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce’s website. With excitement building, this is an event that promises to engage the hearts and minds of all who attend.

Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate community spirit, creativity, and the vibrant colors of fall at the **Harvest Pumpkin Festival**!