A Fall Tradition Returns: Spring Hope Prepares for the 53rd National Pumpkin Festival

Pumpkins, live music, food, shopping and plenty of small-town fun — one of Nash County’s favorite fall traditions is almost here!

The 53rd Spring Hope National Pumpkin Festival returns October 2–3, 2026, bringing two days of fall festivities to Spring Hope. Whether the Pumpkin Festival is already part of your yearly tradition or you’re planning to experience it for the first time, this is one weekend worth putting on the calendar.

The fun gets started Friday evening with the festival’s street dance — the perfect way to kick off the weekend with music, friends and a night out in Spring Hope.

Then, get ready for a full Saturday! The festival is bringing back plenty of the things families look forward to, including parades, live entertainment, food, craft vendors, pumpkin decorating and activities for the kids.

And come hungry! Food Truck Alley is already full for this year’s festival, and the Harvest Market craft vendor spaces have filled up too, meaning there should be plenty to eat, shop and explore while you make your way through the festival.

For the little ones, the Kidz Zone is back after a successful debut last year — and organizers say the activities will once again be free for kids.

This year will also bring a little something different to the festival experience. Activities are being brought onto the main streets of Spring Hope, with organizers also planning to incorporate the town’s new depot area into the celebration.

For more than 50 years, the Pumpkin Festival has given families a reason to gather in Spring Hope each fall. The tradition dates back to 1971, and what started more than five decades ago continues to bring people into town for a weekend centered around community and plenty of fall fun.

So grab your family, call your friends and make your plans — pumpkin season is calling! 🎃🍂

53rd Spring Hope National Pumpkin Festival📅 October 2–3, 2026📍 Spring Hope, NC

Keep an eye on the Spring Hope National Pumpkin Festival website for additional festival updates and details as the weekend gets closer.