It all began in 1956 when Wally Thurow displayed a few decorated pumpkins in his lawn. In 1962, with the help of the Sycamore Lion’s Club, “Mr. Pumpkin” as he is now commonly known, established Pumpkin Fest as an official celebration in Sycamore. This year Sycamore will hold its 48th annual Pumpkin Festival.

The Pumpkin Festival is a week-long event held in various parts of the city, but centered at the DeKalb County Courthouse, 110 East Sycamore St., where thousands of decorated pumpkins bedeck the courthouse lawn each year. This year’s theme, chosen from many possible entrees by local grade-schoolers, is “Pumpkin Safari,” and all will be able to view the wild designs of local kids and adults alike, today through Sunday. But the Pumpkin Festival has grown far beyond an artistic display.

People come from miles and even states around to partake in Pumpkin-Fest-ivities. And with over 40 different non-for-profit organizations and clubs sponsoring, there are activities for everyone. Throughout the week there will be two carnivals, a funfair for younger children, a house-walk in historical Sycamore’s downtown area, a 10K race appropriately dubbed “The Pumpkin Race,” a pie-eating contest and arts and crafts shows at Sycamore United Methodist Church and Sycamore High School.

In addition to all this, various “autumn food” will be available at kiosks downtown, as well as other snacks and various souvenirs, for festival-goers to enjoy.

“It really is a great time,” says lifelong Sycamore resident Hans Anderson, who has participated in the pumpkin race, high school craft fair and pumpkin decorating numerous times. “Especially the race, there are just so many great traditions!”

University of Illinois student Anthony Salis agrees.

“I grew up going to pumpkin fest and selling potatoes there for Boy Scouts. I’m coming back home because I just can’t miss it,” Salis said.

But the culmination of Sycamore’s Pumpkin Festival, according to Sycamore Pumpkin Fest Web site, is undoubtedly the Pumpkin Parade, which features Middle and High School bands from miles around and floats each year. The infamous Mr. Pumpkin also almost always makes an appearance.

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