Five Reasons Not to Miss The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest
USA Today's 10 Best Fall Festivals Returns to Cortland! 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.
The festival returns on Saturday, October 5, at 10am, and continues at 10am on Sunday, October 6.
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 pumpkin of the season to bring home with you! Dave's Veggies offers locally grown pumpkins in every color, shape and size!
If you're feeling creative, try your hand at the Pumpkin Decorating Contest! Individuals and groups are encouraged to channel their inner Van Gogh, and decorate a pumpkin each representing a moment in pop culture history. Drop them off at the Kids' Zone between 10:30-11:30 on Saturday, October 5, as judging will take place at noon. Winners will be announced at 12:45pm. 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, spirits, 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), Dragonfyre Distillery (locally made spirits) 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 on both days of the festival.
The Kids' Zone will keep the little ones entertained for hours with fall-inspired activities, games and make-and-take crafts! 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.
Don't forget to make your way across the park to the Pumpkinfest carnival! Kids rides, concessions and games promise to keep the whole family entertained for hours!
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. 5th
Noon - Quona Hudson
1:30pm - Gary Carpentier
3:15pm - Raedwald Howland-Bolton
5:00pm - Yayle Hues
6:45pm - David Graybeard Band
Sunday, Oct. 6th
Noon - Colleen Kattau & Jane Zell
1:45pm - Steve Daniels Swingtet
3:30pm - People People
PUMPKIN SPICE & EVERYTHING NICE
If you're hungry or thirsty, you're sure to find something at The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest.
It wouldn't be a Pumpkinfest without a big bag of kettle corn, still piping hot from Lulu's, or a Prime Rib Sammy at the Deli Bros Catering. New to the line up is Limp Lizard, regional BBQ truck sure to spice up your festival. Don't forget to make your rounds at Anthony's 19th Hole!
Save room for the sweet stuff, like Dave's signature caramel apples or a delicious treat from Sinfully Sweet Café.
Feeling parched after tasting all the fall-themed treats? Those 21 and over can hop over to the Pumpkin Pub for a tasty craft beverage. The pub will be pouring drafts from award-winning local breweries; McGraw Box Brewing, Cortland Beer Co. and Homer Hops.
MORE INFORMATION
If you have any questions, stop by the Pumpkinkfest information tent, located near the Courthouse stairs in the heart of Pumpkinfest.
Share your Pumpkinfest adventures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.