{"id":715,"date":"2012-10-15T16:27:06","date_gmt":"2012-10-15T16:27:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/dev.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/?p=715"},"modified":"2016-04-17T13:07:41","modified_gmt":"2016-04-17T13:07:41","slug":"pumpkinfest-2012","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/pumpkinfest-2012\/","title":{"rendered":"Pumpkinfest 2012"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"img_caption left\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"caption\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pf-d-f144.jpg\" alt=\"\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/div>\n<p class=\"noindent\">The six annual Pumpkinfest was held in Damariscotta, Maine, on Columbus Day weekend. It is an event that all in the community take part in. While the large pumpkins are the main attraction, there are many events to enjoy. And everyone from small children to elderly people can participate. As always, it was a huge success!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<p>There is no real beginning of a Pumpkinfest year, and no real end to it either. Each Pumpkinfest begins with the pumpkins of the previous year&#8230; when the seeds for the following year&#8217;s giant pumpkins are harvested and saved. They are removed from the pumpkins after the official weigh off by the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth. They are then dried and stored until the following spring.<\/p>\n<p>In May, the seeds from previous pumpkins are started at Pinkham&#8217;s Plantation- home of Pumpkinfest. 700 pumpkin plantlets are given away near the end of the month. This year it was May 20. People can then register their plant for the fall&#8217;s event. The goal is to grow over 500 pumpkins, at over 100 lbs each! These pumpkins are used for the regatta boats and for decorating main street, Damariscotta. That is a lot of pumpkins!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkinfest-plant.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">Two girls ready to grow large pumpkins!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkinfest-plant-5003.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">A serious moment!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Out and about all summer long one sees signs of pumpkin patches.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/pumpkin-fest-11\/pumpkin-patch-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">A well trellised pumpkin vine<br \/>\nis a thing of beauty!<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">This year was a challenge for the growers&#8230;<br \/>\nthe rain was unpredictable,<br \/>\nand there were some very hot spells in June and July.<br \/>\nThe weather pattern was not a normal one!<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">But from this:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/pumpkin-fest-11\/pumpkin%20blossom%20500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">can come one of these:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/pumpkin-fest-11\/pumpkin%20winner%20500%20d.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>THE WEIGH OFF<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Finding out which is the largest pumpkin that is entered in event is the first order of business, and the first event of Pumpkinfest. The weigh off is conducted by and sanctioned by, the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth. This is an organization dedicated to the growth of large pumpkins. And for this event, bigger is definitely better! It takes skill, time, and a lot of work to get one of these big boys!<\/p>\n<p>The pumpkins are cut from their vines the evening prior to the weigh off, so not to lose water weight. But, while that seems like a small thing, it is not! Just getting these pumpkins out of a patch and to the weigh off is a project!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkinfest-moving.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">Moving a large pumpkin<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>This year the winning pumpkin was grown by Charlie Lopresti- and it was a whopping 1332.0 LB.- which is 604.19 Kg. It was a clear winner, weighing over 100 lbs over the runner up.<\/p>\n<p>The next call to action is to gather seeds from the pumpkins. This entails cutting a plug, removing the seeds, and replugging the pumpkin for other events. The seeds are washed, dried, and when truely ready, stored for next year.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500e.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">Pumpkin showing the plug that was cut to remove its seeds.<br \/>\nIt was then replugged, and deployed on Main Street<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>THE PUMPKIN DEPLOYMENT<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The next action is for the 50 or so large pumpkins that are used for main street Damariscotta to be &#8220;deployed&#8221;. I was going to go, but just as I started out, a monsoon of water descended. It POURED! This takes place around 4:30, and large machines are used to maneuver the pumpkins onto pallets that have been placed on the sidewalks, mostly in front of the businesses that donate money for the support of Pumpkinfest. This is not easy! And some of the people request which direction they want the pumpkin to face, which calls for some finesse!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-deploy-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">Placing a large pumpkin in front of<br \/>\nKing Eider&#8217;s Pub<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-deploy-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">Photo courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-deploy-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">SUCCESS!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>FRIDAY<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Friday is a key day in the Pumpkinfest schedule. Pumpkins are decorated, derby pumpkins started, and the sound of saws is loud at Pinkham&#8217;s Plantation where boats for the regatta are being started. And at home pumpkin desserts are being prepared for events on Saturday and Sunday. Old and young alike can all participate in this!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Friday was supposed to be a beautiful day. But, at 8:30 am it was cold, damp, and misty&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-fest-500-river.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">A cold misty morning,<br \/>\nlooking down the Damariscotta River,<br \/>\nthe tide running out.<\/p>\n<p>On the main street of Damariscotta- everywhere one looked there were large rounded pumpkins!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500c.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500d.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500f.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500h-jpg.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">A pumpkin is tagged with weight, and who grew it, and this one has a further message:<br \/>\n&#8220;This side toward the street.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500b.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Despite the chilly early morning, the pumpkin in front of the pub was being carefully dried, in preparation for the work to be done on it. And some had even had work started!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkin-500g.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The pumpkin on the left has a coating of brown paint,<br \/>\nand decorations of leaves.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Soon artists were hard at work.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pump-begin-5001.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkinfest-street.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-l.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>While some people worked on the big pumpkins around the area,<br \/>\nothers were working on smaller ones!<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkinfest-derby-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Intense concentration is needed for getting the axles aligned correctly<br \/>\non the pumpkins being entered in the derby!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pumpkinfest-derby-2a.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">After the axles are in place it is time to decorate the derby contestants!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-derby-a.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-derby-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>SATURDAY<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Saturday dawned clear, with little wind&#8230; it looked like a great day for all events. And there were many! While the pumpkin decorating continued on Main Street, and boat building continued at Pinkham&#8217;s, there were also other events. These included a pie shooting contest, pie eating contest, a dessert contest, underwater pumpkin carving, and the parade!<\/p>\n<p>There were also things happening at the Damariscotta Mills Fish Ladder Restoration Project.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>THE PUMPKIN CHUNKING<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">I decided to go to the pumpkin shooting, or chunking, as I had never been.<br \/>\nThis takes place at one end of Great Salt Bay,<br \/>\npast Damariscotta Mills.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">Looking out over Great Salt Bay<br \/>\none sees a faint mist.<\/p>\n<p>Basically the event is a distance event- with pumpkins being shot out of air cannons. While there are normally two teams of shooters, this year there was only one. I was told that it was due to reasons having to do with insurance.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The team that was there was the Big Ten Team, from Pennsylvania. They were the world champion pumpkin chunkers in 1999, 2007, and 2009. Their gun has an 87 foot long barrel, with a 10 inch bore. It is impressive!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE BIG 10 PUNKIN CHUNKER<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The point of pumpkin chunking is to see how far a pumpkin will go when shot out of the air cannon. The air cannon uses pressure to fire the pumpkin. The pumpkins are tracked by a boat that is in the bay, using GPS. The normal distance one thinks a pumpkin would go would be a couple off foot ball fields. But, the pumpkins normally go a whopping 3,500 feet to 4,000 feet! The Big 10 Team&#8217;s record is over a mile- 5280 feet!<\/p>\n<p>Not knowing what to expect I got there early and watched the set up. There was a lot of toing and froing&#8230; A man was working on what looked like oval pumpkins, but they turned out to be a melon of some sort. From the talk I gather there are a variety of different things that one looks for when choosing the pumpkins to be chunked. The reason melons were used at Pumpkinfest was the world championship chunker contest was coming up in November, and the best pumpkins were being saved for that.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">A man saws off the stems of the melons<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">At this point, there was a lot more toing and froing&#8230;<br \/>\npeople milled around, and the zodiak that would do the GPS tracking went out into the bay.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-7-boat-a.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE ZODIAK HEADS OUT INTO THE BAY<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The large air compressor, supplied by Reilly Well Drilling, started up.<br \/>\nSo, we knew there would be action soon!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">The large air compressor<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">About this time the wind picked up, and cold moist, misty air started blowing in off of the water.<br \/>\nIt was getting cold.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-8.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">But, as the air compression built, gauges were checked.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Adjustments are made.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Finally, pumpkins started to be measured and weighed,<br \/>\nand those numbers recorded.<br \/>\nObviously we were getting close to the first trial!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The team does two trial shots, to make any adjustments needed for the trajectory. Steam builds, a whistle blows twice, and then there is a loud boom.<\/p>\n<p>Now here is the thing&#8230; the pumpkin leaves the cannon barrel at just under the speed of sound. The speed of sound depends on many factors- air temperature, moisture, and pressure. But, in dry air at 20 \u00b0C (68 \u00b0F), the speed of sound is 343.2 meters per second (1,126 ft\/s). This is 1,236 kilometers per hour (768 mph), or about one kilometer in three seconds or approximately one mile in five seconds. Even though it was colder than that and the air was moist, no matter how one cuts it, that is fast.<\/p>\n<p>Given the speed that the pumpkin, or in this case, melon is traveling, it generate heat as it moves through the cannon barrel. The now heated exterior of the object hits the cold air, which condenses into a cloud of steam.<\/p>\n<p>Given the speed and steam&#8230; it is rare to actually see the pumpkin, or melon, leave the cannon. Combine that with the fact that it is going to travel at least 3500 feet, and was a green object landing in a dark colored body of water that had waves moving across it from the wind- one could not see it land either! Even if it were an orange pumpkin, something about 15&#8243; across, moving at that speed, and landing 1\/2- 3\/4 of mile away- which would take about 3 seconds- well I have my doubts that a 15&#8243; orange pumpkin could be spotted in the water- even if one knew exactly where to look!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/chunker11.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">The steam from the Big 10 Cannon as the first melon is shot.<\/p>\n<p>I have to admit, I was disappointed. It seems the event is more exciting for those involved with the procedure than for the spectators. Basically one waits around a long time for pressure to build to launch an object that one can not see, a boat swoops in, gets the GPS coordinates, they are recorded, and then the whole thing is done again.<\/p>\n<p>I decided to leave&#8230;on the way down to Damariscotta Mills, I passed, on the left, by the bay, a small parking lot. One could see the zodiac out in front. Perhaps, if one stood there, one might be able to see the splash down&#8230; Not wishing to wait the half hour it takes to rebuild the air pressure, I moved on.<\/p>\n<p>But, perhaps next year!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>THE PIE EATING CONTEST<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">I did not make it to the pie eating contest,<br \/>\ndue to going to the Chunkin.<br \/>\nBut, I am sure fun was had by all who went,<br \/>\nwhether contestants or as watchers!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-pie.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">PIE CONTESTS ARE DIRTY WORK!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>THE PARADE<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The line to get into town being long, I opted to just watch the parade.<br \/>\nParades in small towns are fun.<br \/>\nAnyone who wishes to be in them can be.<br \/>\nThis makes for a lot of variety!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pf-c-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE QUEEN OF THE PARADE<br \/>\nleads the way!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-b-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">HAPPINESS IS RIDING IN THE PARADE!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p.fest-parade-d-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">PUMPKIN CLOWNS!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-t-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">A LOT OF DIFFERENT FARMS GREW PUMPKINS<br \/>\nfor this!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-l-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE FOUR-H CLUB CAME<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-m-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">NOTE THE MARKINGS ARE OUTLINED IN ORANGE!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-q-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE SHEEP WAS NOT HAPPY,<br \/>\nhe had to be chivvied along.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-j-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">BUZZ PINKHAM GIVES A WAVE!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p.fest-parade-e.500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE COAST GUARD CAME-<br \/>\nthey are here for the Pumpkin Regatta<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-o-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE LADIES THAT PUT ON<br \/>\nthe Legion Auxiliary breakfast were there-<br \/>\ncook stove and all!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-g-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE RUNNERS UP!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-k-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">CHARLIE LOPRESTI and DAUGHTER<br \/>\n&#8211; with their winning 1332.0 LB. ( 604.19 Kg.) pumpkin!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-i-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">KIDS HAD FUN!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-s-500.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">THE CARS FOR THE PUMPKIN DROP<\/p>\n<p>As the last of the parade head down the road, I got in my car to go home. Though there were other events taking place, it seemed like a fitting end to the day.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">ONE MORE EVENT<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>There were many events that take place over the weekend. But one rather boggles the mind. This is the underwater pumpkin carving contest. Yes, you got it.<\/p>\n<p>This takes place, depending on the tide, and is done- underwater! To be entered one needs to be a certified diver. But, all one really ever sees is the occasional fin!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pump-fest-diver.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">DIVER WORKING ON A PUMPKIN<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>SUNDAY<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">On Sunday the fun continues.<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-derby.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The 2nd annual Pumpkin Derby<br \/>\nwas a huge success!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Up on the hill above Great Salt Bay<br \/>\nthe Big 10 used a car for<br \/>\ntarget practice.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-bash.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Ten pound pumpkins can cause a LOT of damage!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">For many the main Sunday event is the Pumpkin Regatta. This event totally depends on the tide. And high tide was mid-afternoon. There are two events- one for paddle pumpkins, and one for motor pumpkins.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-regatta-aa.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">And they are off!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-regatta-b.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">One sees boats of all kinds!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-regatta-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The contestants for the motor pumpkin regatta<br \/>\ntake things very seriously!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-regatta-d.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Photo courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-regatta-h.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Rounding a bouy-<br \/>\ntaking on water!<br \/>\nPhoto courtesy of Phyllis Guss<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>For many the highlight of Pumpkinfest is the display of pumpkins around the area. People who donate to Pumpkinfest get a large pumpkin. But, others grow and decorate their own. So, there are a lot of pumpkins around!<\/p>\n<p>Every year is different. Last year there were more carved pumpkins. This year, more painted ones. No matter what, they add a lot of color to the Damariscotta area!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>PUMPKINS IN TOWN<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-a.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-b.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">While some of the pumpkins seem rather randomly done,<br \/>\nothers are not!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-h.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-g.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">One bank did a candied apple!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-m.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-cc.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The Animal Shelter did a carved and painted pumpkin.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-d.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">What the artist did not realize<br \/>\nuntil after the pumpkin was done,<br \/>\nwas there was a monarch butterfly chrysalis<br \/>\nattached to the pumpkin&#8217;s stem!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-e.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">You can just see it in the picture above,<br \/>\nit is the green oval near the base of the stem.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-g.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">There were some monsters!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-f.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Last year&#8217;s pink kitty<br \/>\nbecame this years bat!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-ii.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">This pumpkin was decorated as an acorn&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-j.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">using hundreds of acorn caps!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pp-k.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">This pumpkin started off as an interesting character&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-h.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">But ended up being a not so nice<br \/>\nvampire bunny!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-l.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Damariscotta pottery painted one pumpkin<br \/>\nto look like one of their<br \/>\npottery lamps!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pppoct.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The most interesting pumpkin in town!<br \/>\nA totally carved out pumpkin-<br \/>\nin the shape of an octopus!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pump-begin-500d.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Yes, we do love pumpkins!<br \/>\nAnd Pumpkinfest!<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>PUMPKINS OUTSIDE OF TOWN<\/b><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-a.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">A beautifully painted pumpkin!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-b.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-d.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The vet did a fire eating dragon-<br \/>\nwith corn for it&#8217;s spines!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-i.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">A peacock stood under a tree.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-f.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Some just paint their logo on their pumpkin.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-k.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The small mall created a cheerful bunch of flowers<br \/>\nin a pale green container.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-p.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The supermarket had a strange beast<br \/>\nwith an owl sitting on it!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-hard.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">A cheerful pumpkin creature<br \/>\ngreeted one at the hardware store!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-n.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Two pumpkin people enjoy a hot tub!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-e.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">Round Top Ice Cream<br \/>\nturned their pumpkins<br \/>\ninto an ice cream sunday!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppaaa.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The mail it for you store<br \/>\nhad a mailbox, complete with letters.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-q.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">The town of Newcastle&#8217;s dragon.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/ppp-r.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">There were many wonderfully decorated pumpkins at Pumpkinfest this year.<br \/>\nThere always are.<br \/>\nBut, the one that stole everyone&#8217;s heart<br \/>\nwas the one in front of the Newcastle Publick House.<br \/>\n(No, that is not a typo!)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/pump-fest-fish-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-fish2.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">This has to be one of the most imaginative uses for rakes, ever!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-fish.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"caption\">The Newcastle, Maine<br \/>\nPublick House puffer fish!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><b>A NOTE OF THANKS<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Pumpkinfest is a labor of love for many people. People donate so much of their time and energy to it, and all because they love both large pumpkins and their community. A special thanks goes out to them.<\/p>\n<p class=\"noindent\">In particular I would like to thank:<\/p>\n<p>Kathy Anderson, a driving force behind Pumpkinfest. She is always a wonderful help, and put me in touch with Phyllis Guss, and kindly allowed me to use anything from the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest site.<\/p>\n<p>Phyllis Guss went to many more events than I could, and she very kindly took the time to send me pictures for this blog, and has allowed me to use others from Damariscotta Pumpkinfest Face Book page as well.<\/p>\n<p>My thanks to you both.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">___________________________<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\">For more information about<br \/>\n<b>Pumpkinfest<\/b><br \/>\nplease see the blog:<br \/>\nwww.Damariscottapumpkinfest.com<\/p>\n<p>For more information about<br \/>\n<b>the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth<\/b><br \/>\nplease see:<br \/>\nwww.greatpumpkincommonwealth.com<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/images\/stories\/Pumpkinfest-2012\/p-fest-f100.jpg\" alt=\"\" border=\"0\" \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The six annual Pumpkinfest was held in Damariscotta, Maine, on Columbus Day weekend. It is an event that all in the community take part in. While the large pumpkins are the main attraction, there are many events to enjoy. And everyone from small children to elderly people can participate. As always, it was a huge &hellip; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/pumpkinfest-2012\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Pumpkinfest 2012<\/span> <span class=\"meta-nav\">&rarr;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/715"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=715"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/715\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1190,"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/715\/revisions\/1190"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=715"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=715"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.brickhousefabrics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=715"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}