The Great Pumpkin Fest in West Chester to include activities for younger children

People attending The Great Pumpkin Fest at Keehner Park in October will experience a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, a puppet show and more.

The event geared toward families is slated for 2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 8 and will also include a pumpkin carving contest, not-so-scary haunted trail, games, crafts and entertainment. Children are encouraged to wear costumes and have a bag to collect treats.

West Chester’s police, fire and community service departments will offer a touch-a-truck experience at the event as well. Guests may also enter a “Name That Plow” contest for a chance to win a ride in a snow plow later this winter.

The Great Pumpkin Fest is free and is staffed with volunteers. Organizers said volunteers are needed for two shifts - 1 to 4 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Service hours for students are available. Sign up online at signupgenius.com/go/10c0c44a5a92ca4f8c07-pumpkin.

The inaugural Great Pumpkin Fest happened in 2000 and grew out of a Halloween costume contest event in the park.

Keehner Park is located at 7211 Barret Road.

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