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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Get your questions answered!

During the event, our volunteers are extremely busy and may not be able to return all questions on social media right away. Please check this FAQ page, as well as the other pages on our website for information.


About Pumpkinfest

Who puts on Pumpkinfest?

The Waterford Lions, a local fully not-for-profit service group, host Waterford’s Pumpkinfest event and all members of the Pumpkinfest crew are volunteers. Read more about what the funds raised by the event support.

How can I provide feedback about Pumpkinfest?

Have an idea, suggestion or feedback? Email us at pumpkinfest@pumpkinfest.com.


Events, admission, tickets and parking

When do the fireworks start?

Fireworks are on Friday evening around 8:00 p.m. The rain date is Saturday evening around 8:00 p.m.

How much does Pumpkinfest cost?

Most events and activities are free, however, donations are encouraged to help keep Pumpkinfest going. An entry fee is required for the Spookhouse, read more here.

How can I make a donation to Pumpkinfest?

Making a donation is easy, and it’s a great way to help Pumpkinfest continue and grow each year. Volunteers will have buckets at the fireworks on Friday evening and the parade on Saturday to accept cash and we also gladly accept e-transfer donations to pumpkinfest@pumpkinfest.com or via our sponsorship program.

Where can I park?

Parking is available on side streets during Pumpkinfest events. During the Fireworks cars can park on the field behind Waterford High School. View a map.

Where is wheelchair parking?

Limited accessible wheelchair parking will be designated along the South side of East Church Street. There is also accessible parking along Alice Street.

Can I bring my dog to Pumpkinfest events?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at outdoor events. Please keep dogs on a leash at all times and consider other patrons at the event and always clean up your dog’s waste.

What are the hours for events and activities?

Check out the event and activity schedule for start and end times for all events.

How do I buy tickets for the midway?

Tickets for midway rides and games are available at the midway on Alice Street.

Is there a charge to enter the Craft Beer Garden?

Entry to the Craft Beer Garden is free! Read more about the Craft Beer Garden.


On-site services

Is there a bank machine available at Pumpkinfest?

Yes, an ATM bank machine will be located near the Beer Gardens at the Pumpkinfest Festival Site on East Church Street. View a map of all Pumpkinfest locations.

Can I buy Pumpkinfest clothing?

Visit our Clothing page for where and when you can purchase official Pumpkinfest clothing.

Are washrooms available?

Portable toilets are available around the festival site.

Are there baby-changing spaces available?

Visitors can find baby-changing spaces in the Waterford Tricenturena arena at the main festival site.

Are there road closures during the event?

Yes. All roads crossing the Parade route will be closed starting at 11:30 am on Saturday. Roads will reopen after the Parade, estimated to be around 2 pm or 2:30 pm. The parade starts at 12:30 pm sharp and is rain or shine

St. James Street is closed for the Soapbox Derby on Sunday.

Church Street between Main and Duncombe will be closed all weekend (except for Sunday Morning).

Where are the best places for kids?

There are lots of events over the weekend for kids, including the Kids Zone, Learning with Lexi, Flying Furballs and Lucas Wilson. Check out the schedule for all Pumpkinfest events.


Food and drink

Is there a beer garden?

There sure is! Read more about the Craft Beer Garden.

What food vendors will be at Pumpkinfest?

A variety of festival food is available at the main festival site.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

Yes, however, please do not bring alcohol to the festival site.