PumpkinFest preparations underway ahead of Oct. 3 kickoff

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Crews and volunteers began setting up Thursday for the 29th annual PumpkinFest, which kicks off Oct. 3 at the Pony Express Museum and Patee Park.

This year’s festival will feature a full weekend of activities, from live music and entertainment to food trucks and children’s events.

Pumpkin Mountain will be lit at 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3, and Saturday, Oct. 4. There will be a costume contest parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, and anyone in a costume can participate. 

"It's a really fun family event, and we've always geared ourselves to make sure that it's a free festival," said Cindy Daffron, Executive Director at the Pony Express Museum, "The entertainment we pay for so you don't. The children's tent had over 900 children pick up a ticket to go through and make a button, decorate a pumpkin and it's really fun."

Organizers said visitors can expect a packed lineup on the main stage of live entertainment, including the Knobtown Skiffle Band, the Phil Vandel Band, BJ’s magic act, Will Stuck storytelling and more. Entertainment will also fill the gazebo, with local musicians, dancers and performers scheduled throughout the weekend.

Vendors and food trucks will line 9th Street near Patee Park, and children will have plenty of activities to enjoy, including a petting zoo, free pumpkins at the Children’s Tent and the chance to shop for gifts at the Pumpkin Shop.

The festival runs Oct. 3 to Oct. 5, and admission is free. To find out more about the event, visit the Pony Express Pumpkinfest website here.