Pilesgrove Twp., NJ

Giant pumpkins will again be turned into works of art when amateur and professional artists compete in the 13th Annual Giant Pumpkin Carve on Saturday, October 17, 2009 from 5 to 9 pm at the Salem County Fair Grounds on Route 40 in Pilesgrove Township, New Jersey. The giant pumpkins are sponsored by local businesses to raise money to benefit Meals on Wheels of Salem County, Inc.   Admission is $5.  There is no charge for children under 3.

Artists begin carving the giant pumpkins early Saturday morning and will work for hours transforming their great gourds into innovative works of art.  Musical entertainment, a bake off, free hay rides, free face painting, crafts, scarecrow building, music, refreshments and more will be available when the fair grounds are opened for public viewing.  During the first hour, visitors will vote for the scariest, prettiest, funniest, "most Halloween," and most original pumpkin.

The annual autumn event offers a fun and safe way to welcome fall, celebrate  the agricultural richness of Salem County and, at the same time, offer a unique venue for local artists to display their work. Proceeds from the gate helps Meals on Wheels of Salem County, Inc. provide hot meals to elderly homebound in Salem County throughout the year.

To participate in the 2009 event as an artist, volunteer or sponsor click here to email us or call (856) 935-3663 and ask for Sharron.

Former artists include:  Molly Sanger Carpenter, Deborah Smith, Bruce Garrity, Anne and Joe Dorety, Roxanna Hurst, Elizabeth Irving, David Dorrell, Tom Gamber, Margo Kohler, Katie Bitter, Tom Kopec, Jackie Steves, Sally Massimino, Marcia Allman, Mark Quinette, Katy Mortimer Rawlins and Theresa Cipriano.

The Giant Pumpkin Carve was started by local businessman Dean Cipriano who saw a unique way to help local charity by promoting the culture of Salem County.

Meals on Wheels of Salem County, Inc. began in 1977 and currently serves over 50,000 meals each year.