The seventh annual Blue Grass Pumpkin Festival promises fall fun for families.
The Oct. 9 event, to be held between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Blue Grass Nursery, will feature face painting, hay rides, a straw maze, a petting zoo, a pumpkin carving contest and a colouring contest.
The event will be capped off by two giant pumpkin smashes at 2 and 3 p.m.
“This year, we will have a 500-pound pumpkin, dropped from a crane onto an old, beat up car,” said Brent Park, Blue Grass sales manager.
There will also be a small farmer’s market, with locally grown produce and baked goods. Food vendors will also be at the event, so attendees can purchase lunch or snacks.
Last year, the event raised around $10,000 for the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Admission is free, but organizers are asking attendees for donations in support of the charity.
According to Park, about 2,000 people attend the event from Calgary, Airdrie and surrounding areas each year.
“Get there early to get the best parking spot, and to get the best selection at the market, as it tends to sell out pretty quick,” said Park, adding that parking is free. “It is a great family event.”
