The Hartsburg Pumpkin Festival began in 1991 as a celebration of the pumpkin and a promotion for the village of Hartsburg. The town quickly became known as "The Garden Spot of Boone County."
The rich Missouri River bottom soil produces unique and bountiful harvests of grains, grasses, fruits, and vegetables. Fall is a time to share the wealth with all and the festival began.
It was interrupted in 1993 by the flood but came back in 1994 and has continued every year.
There are approximately 180 vendors with spaces this year and a variety of foods. Food vendors include: Scimeca from Kansas City with Italian sausage; McAlister's with their famous tea; blooming onions; a booth with German food, ham and beans; Kettle Korn, hot dogs; and homemade ice cream, along with various other delectable treats.
Various local music groups will provide entertainment.
And for the first time in a few years the pumpkin harvest is very good. According to Jo Hackman, local pumpkin farmer and long time resident of Hartsburg, the selection will be plentiful this year.
For the children, there will be a corn maze and a straw maze along with games and activities.
People planning to attend can find a map at www.hartsburgpumpkinfest.com to help with parking.
The festival is Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday
King Parade at 9 a.m. Saturday
Foxfire Band, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Music by Steve Miller 1-3 p.m.
Mick Byrd and the Background Band 3-5 p.m. Saturday
Sunday
Church services, 9-10:30 p.m.
Praise to Him music with religious service, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Out of the Valley musical group, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Music by Steve Miller 2-4 p.m.