I’m not sure if Pablo Picasso painted on pumpkins, but some aspiring young artists will be able to do just that at the State Farmers Market’s 24th annual Great Pumpkin Contest. This year’s event, featuring a decorated-pumpkin contest and other fall activities, will be held Thursday, Oct. 8.
The contest offers three age divisions: 8 years and younger, 9 to 15, and 16 and older. Entrants can drop off decorated pumpkins Wednesday, Oct. 7, between 3 and 5 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 8, between 7 and 9 a.m. in the Farmers Building. Judging will begin at 9:30 a.m. Thursday.
Decorated pumpkins will be judged on use of color, shapes, paint and creativity. 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.