Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 10/2/2023
EASTHAMPTON — Pumpkin carving contests. Horse wagon rides. A bonfire and music. The best of fall activities are featured at the Easthampton Harvest Festival at Nonotuck Park on Oct. 8.
“People really like the atmosphere of the park this time of year, checking out vendors and food and at the end of the event, sitting around the bonfire listening to music — DJ Nick T does a great job getting everyone in the spirit of the season,” said Samantha Pliska, principal clerk for the Easthampton Parks and Recreation Department.
Thirty local crafts and goods vendors will be selling their wares and horsedrawn carriage rides will be available throughout the event. The kids can enjoy some jumping time on various inflatables and get their faces painted or a balloon creation from Dazzle Day Face Painters.
Among the many food options are Sun Kim Bop, Batch Ice Cream and New City Brewery. In addition to DJ Nick T, who will play from 4-6 p.m., Sarah the Fiddler will make her festival debut from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
The highlight of the event may be the annual carved or decorated pumpkin contest. Visitors are asked to bring their carved pumpkins to the pumpkin stage at Pavilion 1 by 4:15 p.m.
“It is all ages and it’s what started this whole event,” explained Pliska. “We’re never going to be Keene, but we have such talented carvers here and I love to check out what everyone has done, especially the Scary Category. We have three categories — scariest, funniest and cutest — and a Best in Show.”
Easthampton Harvest Festival is organized by the Parks and Recreation Department. It started as a way to celebrate the fall season before the Rag Shag Parade at the end of October.
“Once we have our established staples with the horse wagon rides and food trucks, everything falls into place,” said Pliska. “The only thing we truly worry about is New England weather cooperating.”
Pliska and the city are looking forward to an “overally fun family day at the park,” enjoying music and kids’ games and community.
“We are excited to provide another great family tradition for the community,” said Pliska.
The event has free admission and runs from 1 to 5 p.m., with the bonfire wrapping up at 6 p.m. Nonotuck Park is located at 1 Daley Field Rd. in Easthampton. Organizers recommend people use section 3 and the soccer area for parking. Although some may accept other forms of payment, most vendors will only accept cash. For more information, please visit the event’s social media pages.