That the first 500 families to attend this year’s Pumpkinville event are given a free pumpkin to carve for the pumpkin carving contest is an indication of the celebration’s popularity and success. (Carving tools will be supplied.)

The 30th annual Pumpkinville will be held at Happy Rolf’s Animal Farm (650 Read Rd., St. Catharines) on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission is free, and the event features such autumnal delights as hay diving, face painting, crafts, games, and more. There will also be a scarecrow building station, with stakes, straw and clothing. Bring your own clothing and accessories from home to give your creations extra flair.

Parking on-site is limited, but several nearby businesses are offering free parking. There will be a free park-and-ride shuttle bus service from the Grantham Lions Club, (732 Niagara St.) to Happy Rolph's from 9:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Say goodbye-for-now to the animals on the farm while you’re there — they will be returned to their homes in mid-October.

A full list of activities is available at www.stcatharines.ca/Pumpkinville.