Pumpkintown Festival is a Step Back in Time
Friday, September 2nd, 2011 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Saturday, October 8th marks the 8th Annual Pumpkintown Festival in historic downtown Athens, Tennessee. The wonderful sights and sounds of days gone by are intended make you imagine what it must have been like to be a pioneer or a Cherokee in the 1800’s. The hint of fall in the air, the mingling smells of a variety of foods, the bustling crowds, and the ever present music always create a certain excitement that lifts the spirits.
Step out of the present day routine and see first-hand how your ancestors lived. Wander down Heritage Row to watch the blacksmiths, woodturners, basketmakers and cornhusk doll makers, the bonnet-makers, and so many others demonstrate skills that were once a vital part of day-to-day living.
Native Americans are an integral part of the rich cultural heritage in East Tennessee. Learn what their homes were like and watch the many demonstrations of the skills they are best known for. Best of all, see the colorful Cherokee dancers in native costumes.
Did you know that McMinn County is home to one of the most wonderful quilting guilds in the southeast? Visit the annual Heritage Guild Quilt Show that is housed in the Athens Arts Center to view dozens of quilts, many of which are created with patterns that date back to the Civil War with hidden meanings sewn into the colorful patches. The Quilt Show is held in conjunction with Pumpkintown, but will begin before the festival on October 6th and go through October 15th.
Come hungry and bring the kids. A tempting variety of good things to eat and fresh vegetables to buy are in abundance. Have a corn dog while the kids entertain themselves with bouncy toys and climbing walls, a petting zoo, mechanical bull, face painting, temporary tattoos, pumpkin games, a giant mural for all to color on and more!
With entertainment going on all day long on three different stages, vendors on Peddlers Row selling their wares, and the Pumpkin Carving Contest, there’s something for everyone. The festival even includes activities for pets, such as the Mutt Strut, Doggie Costume Contest, and an adoptathon to find homes for shelter animals.
Visit our website at www.PumpkintownFestival.com and make plans to attend.
