Anamosa Hosting 37th Annual Pumpkinfest

The city of Anamosa will celebrate fall with the 37th Annual Pumpkinfest and Ryan Norlin GIANT Pumpkin Weigh-Off on Saturday. 

This event brings thousands of visitors to downtown Anamosa for a full day of family fun, contests, and community spirit.

This year’s theme, “Gourdassic Era,” promises to transform Anamosa into a prehistoric celebration filled with dinosaurs, giant pumpkins, and creative displays. Some of this year’s highlights include:

• Ryan Norlin GIANT Pumpkin Weigh-Off – See some of the largest pumpkins in the Midwest compete for the top prize.
• Pumpkinfest Parade – Floats, bands, and community groups will take over Main Street. 
• Kids Zone – Games, inflatables, and fun for children of all ages.

Pumpkinfest is proud to honor Don and Marge Folkerts as this year’s Parade Grand Marshals. Don and Marge recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary and have spent decades dedicated to Anamosa.

• Don, born and raised in Anamosa, worked 42 years at the Anamosa State Penitentiary, retiring in 2003. For the past 20 years, he has volunteered at the Anamosa State Penitentiary Museum. He also retired recently after serving 58 years as Secretary of the Anamosa School Board.

• Marge served 24 years as director of the Anamosa Library, including 17 years at its original location and seven years at its current home.

• Together, Don and Marge were custodians at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Anamosa for 43 years.