Jordan’s Garden Annual Fall Pumpkin Festival

I had the privilege of attending the Annual Pumpkin Festival hosted by Jordan’s Garden in Machias, Maine. Owner Wayne Lobley provides over one hundred youngsters and their families with pumpkin seeds (from Johnny's, of course!) and instructions for the Pumpkin Growing Contest in late spring. Everyone comes together in September to showcase their efforts and celebrate the season.

This year’s activities included pumpkin games, hay rides, scarecrow making, pumpkin painting, pie eating contest, official chicken races, craft vendors, and homemade donuts and treats from the Towne Fryer, and much, much, more. Wayne, family, staff, and friends estimate they had over 300 people through their doors on Saturday. It was an absolutely beautiful day and fun for all.


Pumpkin judges this season were Sheriff Donnie Smith, Master Gardener Irene Fitzgerald, and me. We had several large pumpkins this year weighing in at 24 to 30 lbs. Awards and prizes were handed out for winners in the Largest, Smallest, and Best Decorated categories. The judges also added a category this year for Best Overall Pumpkin.

If you live in the greater Machias area, stop in and visit Jordan’s Garden. Don’t forget to get your pumpkin seeds! I’ll see you next September.

- Joy Frost, Inside Sales Rep