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The 13th annual Boykins Pumpkin Fest takes place Saturday, Oct. 19, and people from the Franklin-Southampton community and surrounding areas are invited to come and participate in the festival’s offerings, which will include a new touch-a-truck feature this year.

Boykins Town Clerk Victoria Edwards explained the purpose of the Pumpkin Fest when she said that it “is a time for Boykins to share its small-town atmosphere with a wholesome family event that celebrates our rural heritage and harvest season with surrounding areas.”

The festival, which is free to the public, will be held on Virginia Avenue in the center of town from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday.

Edwards noted that there will be pony rides, a petting zoo, hay rides, interactive games, bounce houses, vendors and plenty of pumpkins and gourds for purchase. 

She said that anyone interested in submitting a carved or decorated pumpkin in a contest that will be held during the festival can do so before 1 p.m. Saturday for a chance to win prizes. 

She also noted that Pumpkin Fest organizers have added a touch-a-truck feature to the event this year, which will allow some unique opportunities to interact with emergency vehicles and more.

“Touch-a-truck allows the public to explore the vehicles and equipment on display and gives the community an opportunity to meet and greet our first responders and law enforcement,” Edwards said.

Speaking to readers on behalf of the town, Edwards said, “The Town of Boykins invites you all to join us as we celebrate our harvest season with our small-town traditions.”