Every October since 1996, Downtown Cortland has been transformed into a vibrant, outdoor fall festival when The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest arrives in Historic Courthouse Park. The two-day event has been one of the county's most highly-anticipated fall celebrations, a family-friendly experience that has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
After a two-year hiatus, the festival returns on Saturday, Oct. 1st at 10 am, and continues at noon on Sunday, Oct. 2nd.
If you're looking for a fun and memorable way to spend a fall weekend in Cortland County, your search has ended. Here are five top reasons why Cortland's Pumpkinfest is a can't-miss event.
PUMPKINS, PUMPKINS AND MORE PUMPKINS
Not only will everyone's favorite fall décor be displayed throughout the park, but you can also purchase your first of the season to bring home with you.
If you're feeling creative, try your hand at the Pumpkin Decorating Contest sponsored by Meldrim's Paint Center. Individuals and groups are encouraged to channel their inner Van Gogh, and decorate a pumpkin to resemble a favorite character from books, films, TV or music. Drop them off at the Kids' Zone between 10-11:45am on Saturday, Oct. 1 as judging will take place at Noon. Winners will be announced at 12:45pm at the Main Stage at the east end of the park. Don't forget to pick up your pumpkin by 3pm the following day to take home as a spooktacular keepsake.
CRAFTERS
Pumpkinfest would not be complete without the annual craft show. The vendor list this year will feature over 50 vendors and artists selling items including holiday decorations, jewelry, clothing, photography, wood crafts and just about everything in between.
Businesses that will be sharing their beautiful handmade crafts with guests include, but are not limited to Maslins Guarden (macrame), Langan Wellness (health and wellness) and Beacon Peak LLC (custom laser printing and engraving).
It's a "shopportunity" you don't want to miss!
ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES
Kids can enjoy quintessential autumn activities like hayrides, and pony rides both days of the festival.
The Kids' Zone will keep the little ones entertained for hours with fall-inspired activities like ghost bowling, and pumpkin bean bag toss. Free pony rides are always a Pumpkinfest favorite, or take a family hayride around the park. Tickets are available at the information tent for $1/person (maximum $5/family); children five and under ride for free.
LIVE MUSIC
Live entertainment will be performed throughout both days of the festival featuring music for all tastes. From Country to Classic Rock, Bluegrass to Funk, you name it, Pumpkinfest has got it.
Saturday, Oct. 1st
12pm James Vandeuson
1pm Jon Rogalia
2pm Unreal Village
3:30pm Steve Daniels Trio
5pm Molly and the Ringwalds
Sunday, Oct. 2nd
12pm The Rollin' Rust
1:30pm M3
3pm Past My Bedtime
PUMPKIN SPICE & EVERYTHING NICE
If you're hungry or thirsty, you're sure to find something at The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest.
If you really want to get your taste buds moving, try a heaping plate of noodles from Yakisobas, or a Prime Rib Sammy at the Deli Bros Catering. Don't forget to make your rounds at Anthony's 19th Hole, and MoMo's Traveling Cafe.
Save room for the sweet stuff, like Meg-a-Moo’s Ice Cream, or homemade kettle corn from Lulu's Kettle Corn.
Feeling parched after tasting all the fall-themed treats? Those 21 and over can hop over to the Pumpkin Pub for a beverage.
MORE INFORMATION
If you have any questions, stop by the Pumpkinkfest information tent, located near the Courthouse Fountain on Church Street.
Share your Pumpkinfest adventures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.