The final touches are being put on this year’s Pumpkinfest in Port Elgin.
It’s the 23rd year of the annual event to salute the quintessential fall vegetable and it takes place tomorrow and Sunday.
Coordinator Lisa Irwin says there are several new features this year, including the Patches Recreation and Outdoor Show, taking place at the Port Elgin Missionary Church.
Among the features of the show are Lawrence Euteneier — a blind angler who will showcase his uniquely outfitted boat.
Thanks to a Celebrate Ontario grant, a drive-in movie theatre will be set up on Saturday night in the parking lot of Legault’s Independent Grocer.
For a two dollar admission, you can see Madagascar and Grease.
Of course, the main event at Pumpkinfest is the weigh-offs for giant pumpkins.
Irwin says those take place in the Bruce Power Grower’s Tent at 9 AM on Saturday, and 10 AM on Sunday.
The big pumpkins are moved onto the scales using forklifts.
Growers bring their prize pumpkins from all over Canada and the United States.
Irwin says they also weigh watermelons and gourds.
The Cinderalla Carriage Antique and Classic Car Show at Pumpkinfest always brings out the crowds, and this year should be no exception.
Irwin says there are some 450 cars pre-registered this year, more than ever before, and many more show up on the day the show starts.
Other events and activities at Pumpkinfest this year include a midway, Giant Tiger Kiddie Karnival, Bowmanville Zoo Camel Rides, and the Artist Village Craft Show.
98 The Beach and Bayshore Broadcasting is a sponsor of Port Elgin Pumpkinfest.