Pumpkin Patch Returns, Great Pumpkin Nowhere in Sight

For the past few weeks the Great Pumpkin has yet to rear his head in River Edge, although more than 2,000 of his smaller cousin pumpkins have appeared. The overwhelming number of pumpkins have transformed the lawn of the First Congregational Church in River Edge into what has become somewhat of a local fall landmark in ther neighborhood. This year’s 4th annual Pumpkin Patch fundraiser has returned.

Dozens of volunteers turned out when a truck load of various varieties of pumpkins, gourds and corn arrived earlier this month and an additional shipment was delivered over the weekend. All of the pumpkins were home grown on the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico.  

More than just a pumpkin sale, the Patch has become a “fun” raiser and is now a place to catch up with friends, take photos of the kids, and spend a few minutes selecting a future jack  

Homemade baked goods and other delights will also be available for sale. Returning customers will be glad to know the mouthwatering apple butter, apple sauce, fruit pies, breads and other treats are back.  

The First Congregational Church is part of the Pumpkin Patch Family of Churches and other non-profit groups in 1,300 locations across the country that participates in this annual event.

Each year, host organizations net several million dollars that help the local Navajo economy through jobs and projects. The First Congregational Church has raised approximately $50,000 over the past three years and is hoping to collect atleast $30,000 this year.

The Pumpkin Patch is located on Continental Avenue and will be open daily, late morning until 7pm through Halloween.

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