Pumpkin Fest marks 34 years

CARSTAIRS - Despite cool weather, between 300 and 400 people of all ages turned out for the 34^th annual Carstairs Pumpkin Fest on Saturday.

The event is sponsored by the Carstairs Agricultural Society and is put on in the curling rink.

“Everyone seemed to be happy despite the weather,” said volunteer and board member Gail Davis. “It was cool that’s for sure, but still a good event.”

In all, about 15 volunteers made the festival a success in 2018, she said.

There were 17 pumpkins entered in the junior category and eight in the adult category, she noted.

The largest pumpkin came in at 218.5 pounds, or 99 kilograms, and was entered by Adrian Warden.

The festival also included judging of baking, and many fun activities for kids, including a fishing pond and painting.

This year’s festival was complemented by Alberta Culture Day activities in town, including events at the Heritage Centre.

Planning for the 35^th annual pumpkin festival will get underway in March, she said.