by The Milford Pumpkin Festival is one of New Hampshire’s most anticipated fall events, drawing thousands of visitors each year to celebrate the beauty and fun of the autumn season. Whether you’re a family looking for weekend entertainment, a craft enthusiast searching for unique handmade items, or someone who simply loves the fall season, the Milford Pumpkin Festival has something for everyone.
Festival Schedule
The 2025 Milford Pumpkin Festival spans three exciting days from October 10–12, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of activities at different times throughout the weekend. Each day features a unique schedule designed to keep attendees entertained from morning to evening.
- Friday, October 10: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The festival kicks off in the evening with an opening ceremony, live music performances, and the first chance to explore food vendors and craft booths. Friday night is perfect for families and friends who want a relaxed start to the festival. - Saturday, October 11: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday is the busiest day of the festival, with full-day activities including pumpkin carving, scarecrow-making workshops, arts and crafts booths, food trucks, and continuous live entertainment. Evening events, such as the community pumpkin lighting and the Haunted Trail, provide a festive and slightly spooky experience. - Sunday, October 12: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The festival wraps up on Sunday with family-focused activities, final craft shopping opportunities, and performances by local musicians. This day is ideal for those who want a calmer, more relaxed experience while still enjoying the seasonal festivities.
The festival schedule is designed to cater to a wide variety of interests, ensuring that attendees of all ages have a memorable experience. Families can plan their visit based on their preferred activities and enjoy the full spectrum of what the festival has to offer.
Festival Venue
The Milford Pumpkin Festival is held in Union Square, the central hub of Milford, New Hampshire. The location is ideal for a community festival, offering a quaint and charming setting that enhances the festive atmosphere. Union Square is easily accessible, providing convenience for both local attendees and visitors traveling from nearby towns.
- Address: Union Square, Milford, NH
- Parking: Ample free parking is available at Milford High School (100 West Street) and Milford Middle School (33 Osgood Road). Shuttle buses run continuously from these locations to Union Square, making it easy for attendees to reach the festival grounds.
- Road Closures: During the festival, Nashua Street and Elm Street will be closed to through traffic. Detour signs and additional parking guidance will help visitors navigate the area safely.
The central location not only provides easy access to all festival attractions but also enhances the small-town charm that makes this event feel special. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the streets, taking in the seasonal decorations, and exploring the wide variety of activities and booths available.
Festival Highlights
Pumpkin Carving & Community Lighting
One of the most beloved events of the festival is the pumpkin carving activity. Visitors are encouraged to bring their carved pumpkins to The Oval, where they are displayed as part of the community celebration. This activity promotes creativity and friendly competition, with each carved pumpkin earning a discount coupon for the Haunted Trail. The community pumpkin lighting adds a magical touch to the festival, especially during the evening hours on Saturday.
Haunted Trail
The Haunted Trail is a thrilling feature of the Milford Pumpkin Festival, located in Emerson Park. This attraction is perfect for visitors seeking a slightly spooky adventure. With creatively designed paths, eerie decorations, and fun scare elements, the Haunted Trail entertains both teens and adults. It is one of the festival’s signature attractions and a highlight for those attending in the evening.
Scarecrow Making & Pumpkin Painting
Visitors of all ages can take part in scarecrow-making workshops and pumpkin painting activities. These interactive workshops allow participants to create their own festive decorations to take home. The activities are designed to be engaging for children, while adults can enjoy the creative process as well. These hands-on experiences are perfect for families looking for a fun, creative way to spend time together during the weekend.
Live Music & Entertainment
Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy a wide variety of live music performances. Local bands and musicians perform on stage, providing a lively soundtrack to the event. From folk and country music to seasonal tunes, the entertainment adds to the overall festive atmosphere and encourages visitors to linger and enjoy the day.
Food, Crafts & Vendors
The festival features an extensive selection of food vendors, offering everything from classic festival fare to unique seasonal treats. Local artisans and craft vendors set up booths throughout the festival grounds, selling handmade jewelry, home décor, and other creative products. This mix of food and crafts makes the festival not only entertaining but also a great place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Pumpkin Catapult
The Pumpkin Catapult is an exciting and highly anticipated event that draws crowds each year. Spectators enjoy watching pumpkins being launched through the air in a fun and thrilling display of autumn-themed entertainment. It is a lively activity that adds excitement and a sense of spectacle to the festival.
Conclusion
The Milford Pumpkin Festival is more than just an autumn event; it is a celebration of community, creativity, and the joys of the fall season. With its wide array of activities, entertainment options, and family-friendly attractions, it promises a memorable experience for attendees of all ages.
Mark your calendars for October 10–12, 2025, and plan to spend a weekend enjoying the festive spirit, delicious food, and vibrant community atmosphere at the Milford Pumpkin Festival in New Hampshire.
