NORWICH – Hundreds are expected to flock to downtown Norwich this weekend as the 14th annual Pumpkin Fest kicks-off tonight on the grounds of East and West Parks.

The event has been a longstanding and highly-favored community tradition for years. Organizers are hoping for better weather and a higher turnout this year because the event’s shift forward in date.

“Weather was a big part of why we changed the dates this year,” explained Pumpkin Fest Committee Chair Marilyn Oliver. In its 14-year history, Oliver only recalled one festival when rain, snow or blistering cold didn’t play a factor in the celebration. “We’re hoping that isn’t going to be a problem this year,” she said.

Even with a new time, Oliver promises the same customary favorites relating to everything pumpkin. “We even have some new things this year,” she said, including the first-ever “Oh My Gourd” carving contest, which invites community members to show off their squash-carving skills. Also, returning favorites like the Pumpkin bake-off and the scarecrow contest will keep festival-goers excited about another fall season, she said.