FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, OCT. 4, 2010

25th annual decorated pumpkin contest to be held at the
State Farmers Market Thursday

RALEIGH — The changing leaves won’t be the only colorful sign of fall during the 25th annual decorated pumpkin contest at the State Farmers Market this Thursday. Competitors of all ages can submit their painted and carved pumpkins for a chance to win prize money during the celebration.

The contest offers three age divisions: 8 years and younger, 9 to 15, and 16 and older. Entrants can drop off their decorated pumpkins in the Farmers Building Wednesday, Oct. 6, from 3 to 5 p.m., or Thursday, Oct. 7, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Judging will begin at 9:30 a.m. Thursday.

“With the combination of dry conditions and heavy rains, North Carolina pumpkins have done exceptionally well this year,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said. “Contestants shouldn’t have any problem picking out a great pumpkin to decorate.”

Decorated pumpkins will be judged on creativity, as well as the color, shape and quality of the pumpkin used. Pumpkins can be carved or painted, and can use other forms of art media, but cannot be artificial. A top prize of $40 will be awarded in each category, with second, third and fourth places earning $25, $10 and $5, respectively.

The event is sponsored by the State Farmers Market, the State Farmers Market Restaurant and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. For additional information about this event and other events at the State Farmers Market, go to http://www.ncagr.gov/markets/facilities/markets/raleigh/ promos.htm.

-pmj-2