Punkin Chunkin Festival Set for Oct. 18-19 in Western North Carolina

BRASSTOWN, N.C. (AP) — Pumpkins will soar through the autumn sky once again this October as the annual Punkin Chunkin festival returns to Western North Carolina on Oct. 18 and 19, with the popular Chili and “Anything Pumpkin” Cook-off kicking off festivities the evening of Oct. 17.

Hosted by the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, the family-friendly harvest celebration draws thousands each year to watch catapults, air cannons, trebuchets and other machines launch pumpkins across open fields. The main event takes place at 811 Settawig Road in Brasstown, with pumpkin launches scheduled from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

Admission is $5, with children under five admitted free. Parking is also $5. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Pets and firearms are not permitted on festival grounds.

In addition to pumpkin chunking, the festival features pie-eating contests, hayrides, old-time tractor displays, airplane rides, food and craft vendors, and a Kidzone filled with children’s activities. Live music and entertainment will take place throughout the weekend.

The celebration begins Friday evening at 6 p.m. with the annual Chili and “Anything Pumpkin” Cook-off on the Historic Hayesville Square. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the event. Downtown Hayesville restaurants will also be open for dining.

For more information, visit the Clay County Chamber of Commerce website or call (828) 389-3704.