By Nicole Schoen
A tradition started in FishHawk Ranch eight years ago, has grown to draw over 5,000 people to this family-friendly event annual event. Once a year, Newland Communities and FishHawk Ranch put together the Pumpkin Festival which helps bring the feeling of fall to this active Florida community.
This year, the festival will take place at the same location as last year at 14097 Barrington Stowers Dr., in Lithia, just off FishHawk Blvd. near Mosaic on Saturday, October 26. The all-day event will kick off at with a pumpkin carving at 9 a.m. and will wrap up after a full day of activities at 9 p.m. Some of the festivities include hay rides, hamster ball races, a bungee run, a rock wall, a pumpkin lighting display after the sun sets and more. Attendees are encouraged to dress up as there will be a costume contest with prizes for cutest, scariest and most original costumes. This year, two local bands will be taking the stage to provide entertainment; Stormbringer from 3–6 p.m. and Frequency from 6–9 p.m.
“The Pumpkin Festival has grown to be a destination for many,” said marketing manager for Newland Communities, Lynda McMorrow. “From the many volunteers, to the sponsors who donate monetary and in-kind donations, it wouldn’t be the huge success it has become without the support of everyone involved and the many people that come to enjoy the day.”
While there is no admission to the event, they are asking people to bring non-perishable food donations for Feeding America Tampa Bay. Some of the proceeds will also be donated to the YMCA. There will be activity tickets for sale and food and drink will be available for purchase by cash or credit. Last year, the festival raised over $26,000 for the same charities. “It’s a great day for the community to come out and support two local charities and have a great time too,” said McMorrow.
For more information, visit thepump kinsarecoming.com or for questions about sponsorship or volunteering contact Lynda McMorrow at lmcmor row@newlandco.com or call 685-7500.
