GRAHAMSVILLE, NY — The 40th annual Giant Pumpkin Party and Parade will take place on Saturday, October 3. The parade will kick off at 11 a.m. from the Tri Valley School, 34 Moore Hill Road, then travel along State Route 55/Main Street to the fairgrounds. There the pumpkin party continues from noon to 4 p.m.

The pumpkin party, which supports the Daniel Pierce Library, is “one of Sullivan County’s most beloved autumn events, focusing on children, their families and their love for reading,” the library said. “It’s a fun family day out with something for everyone—from the costume march to pony rides, children’s games provided by Town of Neversink Parks and Recreation, children’s craft activities provided by Frost Valley, giant pumpkin growing contest, handmade craft vendors, hay rides, a book sale, live music, amazing food, pumpkin sales, raffles and other amusements.”

The children’s costume march (open to children of all ages) takes place immediately following the parade, at 1 p.m. at the fairgrounds pavilion. No registration is required and any costume will do, the library said.

Every library benefit needs a book sale. A fantastic collection of gently used books will be featured at the party: Find a book and take a refreshment break with treats of homemade donuts, hot dogs, hamburgers, hot apple cider and drinks available for purchase. 

The Giant Pumpkin Party is held rain or shine, and admission and parking are free. Funds raised will be used to benefit the Daniel Pierce Library. 

For entry forms, contest rules, a schedule of the day’s events or additional information, call the Daniel Pierce Library at 845/985-7233 or visit the Giant Pumpkin Party page on the library website, www.danielpiercelibrary.org.