Events: Downtown Washougal Pumpkin Harvest Festival Changes Date

Washougal, WA – Local families are invited to wear their Halloween costumes and receive a free pumpkin at the annual Downtown Washougal Pumpkin Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 28, from 12 to 3 p.m. at Reflection Plaza, 1703 Main Street.  The event has moved from its previous Wednesday afternoon to Saturday in hopes this will be a more convenient time for families. The event will take place rain or shine.

More than 300 pumpkins will be harvested from the City garden plot behind City Hall for the event.   An additional 800-900 pumpkins will be purchased with a generous donation from Columbia River Realty.  All pumpkins will be handed out free, one per child, while supplies last.

“The Pumpkin Harvest Festival is a culmination of the work of many in the community,” said Rose Jewell, event organizer and City of Washougal Assistant to the Mayor & City Administrator.  “Second grade students from Gause Elementary planted the pumpkin seeds last spring during a field trip to City Hall and the seeds were donated by Washougal True Value.  Representatives from the Washougal Library, City of Washougal, Unite Washougal, Downtown Washougal Association, Washougal Arts and Culture Alliance and Washougal Round Table each cared for a portion of the patch to ensure a bountiful harvest of pumpkins for the event.  DWA volunteers and City staff have worked together on planning.”

“It is so fun to see all the kids and parents in downtown,” said Heena, DWA president.  “After they enjoy the activities at Reflection Plaza, many stay to explore downtown Washougal.” Many merchants will have candy on hand so the kids can get a jump start on their holiday trick or treating with the popular “Halloween Hunt.”

The event is completely free and will also feature carnival games run by student volunteers, balloon animal makers sponsored by IQ Credit Union, apples donated by Washougal Family Dental, popcorn from the Washougal Fire Department, a selfie station and more.

Volunteers are still needed.  If you would like to help please contact [email protected].