If you have never seen a pumpkin fly, Punkin Chunkin is your chance. Catapults, air cannons, trebuchets and other powerful machines toss pumpkins up to several thousand feet in a battle between world champion pumpkin chunkers and the home teams. Thousands of people come every year to see this hugely popular festival in western North Carolina near Hayesville that is sponsored by the Clay County Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to the pumpkin throwing, there will be pumpkin pie-eating contests, live entertainment, food and craft vendors and a flight simulator. Tractors, airplane rides and a zipline, will join carnival rides and a climbing wall. Adults may enjoy a seat in the beer and wine tent while watching the Punkin Chunkin.
The Kidzone is always a popular place with lots of kids’ activities. An area for interactive children’s activities has been added and the children get to take home what they have made.
Punkin Chunkin weekend kicks off on Friday evening with the “Anything Pumpkin” and Chili Cook-off competition on the Historic Hayesville Square starting at 6 pm. Tickets will be sold on a first-come first-serve basis at the event.
The main festival is held at 811 Settawig Road in Brasstown. No pets or firearms allowed. Lawn chairs are encouraged. The festival runs from 10-5 on Saturday and Sunday. On both days, the machines are scheduled to launch pumpkins from 1-4 and there is a pie eating contest at 2:30. The machines will take practice throws before then.
Also check out the Pumpkin Trail at local businesses around Hayesville. These businesses have decorated pumpkins for your viewing pleasure. You can also view and vote on your favorites at the Chamber’s Facebook page to view all the pumpkins. Pumpkins will be displayed starting the weekend of October 15 through Halloween, and a map of the Pumpkin Trail will be available at the Festival.
