There's probably no symbol that's more synonymous with autumn than the trusty pumpkin. That instantly recognizable orange gourd is everywhere this time of year. On doorsteps, in front yards, and in your coffee! And of course, as we approach Halloween, pumpkins will be turned into works of art. In the southwestern New Hampshire city of Keene, there's one fall harvest festival that puts on a stunning display of pumpkin art that also celebrates community.
Keene's Pumpkin Fest began in 1991 as part of a harvest festival. The mission was to bring new life and vitality to downtown Keene.
As the event grew and became more well-known, the appeal to carve a pumpkin in an attempt to break a world record was apparent.
The Pumpkin Fest has no ulterior motive other than bringing the community together to participate in a mutual event.
In 2013, the event set a world record for having a whopping 30,581 jack-o'-lanterns lit and on display all at once.
Over its lifetime, the event has won a total of eight world records for most pumpkins lit in one location.
Pumpkin Fest briefly moved away from Keene to the Lakes Region town of Laconia for a few years, but returned to Keene in 2017.
In addition to the stunning display of pumpkins, the festival also features live entertainment, trick-or-treating, vendors, and a costume parade.
For more information on this classic New Hampshire fall harvest festival, visit the Keene Pumpkin Fest website and be sure to follow Keene Pumpkin Fest on Facebook for the latest updates.
Fall is fading here in New Hampshire, but there is still time to enjoy the state before the snow flies. Here are nine perfect day trips you can take to try and catch the last of the foliage color. Grab your snacks and hit the road!
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