The 18th annual Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Championship, sponsored by the Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Growers Association, the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture, and Frerichs Farm and Greenhouses, is scheduled to be held today, Saturday, October 8th at Frerichs Farm in Warren.

Last year’s contest winner was Steve Sperry of Johnston.  His winning pumpkin weighed in at 1,520 pounds.          

The event begins at 9:30 a.m. with the unloading of the biggest pumpkins grown in the area. The weigh-off is scheduled for 12 p.m.  A rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, October 9th.  Seating is not available.  Feel free to bring a lawn chair or blanket for the weigh-off viewing.

Additional event highlights include refreshments, “pumpkin coach” rides, and a giant pumpkin drop scheduled to take place at 11:30 a.m.  There will also be pumpkin-painting booths for children along with displays of seasonal arts and crafts, gifts, and products available for purchase. 

There will be a $5 fee charged for parking.  If you are interested in competing in this year's event or would like more event information, contact Barbara Frerichs at (401) 245-8245.  You can also visit this link for more information: Pumpkin Contest.

Please call Frerichs Farm at 245-8245 to confirm the date of the event if there is a threat of inclement weather.