()
Pumpkins are just as symbolic of fall across Germany as they are in the U.S. Naturally, we must celebrate the coming of autumn with commemorative festivals It just so happens that Germany is home to the largest pumpkin festival in the world in Ludwigsburg.
Located at Blühendes Barock, the Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival has more pumpkin related foods and activities than you could ever imagine. For those interested in pumpkin-inspired food and beverages, there will be pumpkin tarte flambée, popcorn, burgers, beer and of course, roasted pumpkin seeds. The largest batch of pumpkin soup is made during the last week in September. One pot holds approximately 2,000 servings!
Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival in 2016 | Photo by: Elena Podolnaya
While you snack on pumpkin flavored foods, there are plenty of events taking place. Children will especially love listening to tales from the pumpkin patch with Anselm Roser, carving pumpkins and walking through the little chamber of horrors. Adults can cheer on pumpkin canoe racers as they try their hand at victory during the Pumpkin Regatta on Castle Lake. Yes, they really paddle around in hollowed-out pumpkins! There is also an area dedicated to artistic pumpkin carving, a giant pumpkin and squash showcase, as well as musical performances on Saturdays.
The culminating event that shuts down the festival is the smashing of pumpkins. During this time, the largest pumpkins are smashed and visitors can see what the interior of these mammoths really look like. Seeds are also collected during the event and sold to those interested in growing their own monstrosity.
While Ludwigsburg is the ultimate pumpkin fest in Germany, consider checking out these pumpkin patches or pumpkin-themed activities near you.
Bavaria
Jerry’s Pumpkin Patch - Litzlohe
Activities:
Pick-your-own pumpkins
Hayrides on Saturdays and holidays (weather permitting)
Kaiserslautern
Hitscherhof Pumpkin Farm - Maßweiler
Activities:
Farm store with decor and edible pumpkins
Cut-your-own flower garden
Corn maze
Golf
Annual festival
Sunshine Pumpkin Farm - Gerhardsbrunn
Activities:
Pick-your-own pumpkin patch
Hayrides
Farm tours (available by appointment - call: 06375-5852)
Annual festival
Rhein-Main
Goldgrun Pumpkin Farm - Hünfelden-Mensfelden
Activities:
Farm shop
Corn maze
Golf
Whether you want to eat, carve or just smash some pumpkins, any of these locations would be fantastic! Kids and adults alike can enjoy all the sights and tastes of fall.
