Why the Morton Pumpkin Festival is a Hit.

Pumpkin season is upon us, friends! Last week, we had Morton’s 59^th annual pumpkin festival – so much excitement and all things pumpkin!

I love reflecting on the Pumpkin Festival week each year, and why it’s such a hit in our Central Illinois community. Most of the world’s canned pumpkin is processed at the Libby’s plant in Morton, earning it the title of the “Pumpkin Capital of the World.” Our yearly pumpkin festival draws up to 75,000 visitors over the course of the 4 days, bringing the community together in a special way that nothing else does. Each year, families look forward to the parades, the activities, and (of course) the food that makes the pumpkin festival unique. 

Here are some of the highlights you can expect from the Morton Pumpkin Festival each year:

• Pumpkin sweets! Think ice cream, sugar cookies, pies, and pastries all featuring that iconic, comforting pumpkin flavor.
• The “pumpkin grill” has savory pumpkin-inspired offerings for when you need something a little more substantial to fuel you.
• Carnival rides and pie eating contests for those who are looking for some good old-fashioned fun.
• An arts & crafts market.
• The pumpkin classic 10k run.
• The traditional pumpkin pancake breakfast.
• Live music and entertainment throughout the course of the festival.

There really is nothing like the pumpkin festival to unite our community, usher in the beginning of fall, and celebrate what makes our local area unique. I hope each of you had a blessed time, and I know I’m already looking forward to next year!