By Julia Howard
If you are local to Saratoga Springs, you’ve probably heard about the 7th Annual Giant Pumpkinfest happening this Saturday, September 24th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event is a collaboration between the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, the Saratoga Springs City Center, and the Saratoga Farmers’ Market.
At 9 a.m., the farmers’ market bell will ring, signaling a start to the festivities. Pumpkinfest is a special day for the Saratoga Farmers’ Market as vendors will feature pumpkin-themed products like pumpkin chèvre, pumpkin peanut butter, pumpkin pies, pumpkin spice lattes, and, of course, the pumpkins themselves. Local farms will bring a plethora of pumpkins and gourds of all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Market-goers will also find free, fun activities at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market, like a “guess the weight of the pumpkin” contest, no-mess pumpkin painting for children, live music performances, and a pumpkin rolling contest on the lawn. The farmers’ market will be open until 1 p.m. at High Rock Park.
At the Saratoga City Center Parking Garage on High Rock Avenue, spectators will find the giant pumpkins on display, with a competitive weigh-off beginning at 11 a.m. Additionally, more vendors will be set up outside the parking garage until 4 pm.
The farmers’ market is ideal for experiencing the seasonal transition into fall. Summer’s offerings give way to the upbeat of the autumnal rhythm, introducing winter squash, brightly colored mums, and freshly-picked apples.
You will find fall staples like apple cider, cider donuts, jams, and pies. And vendors’ tables will continue to be abundant with cabbage, beets, potatoes, peppers, and more. Farm-raised meats and poultry, fresh eggs, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and many other locally sourced items are available throughout the season.
Fall also initiates a season of activities at the farmers’ market. Every Wednesday in October, from 3 to 6 p.m., the market will offer live music, a craft, and an activity for children and families.
On Wednesday, October 26, local families are invited to a Halloween costume contest for kids, trick or treating, crafts, and activities hosted by market volunteers and the Saratoga Springs Public Library.
The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. at High Rock Park. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
