The Pumpkin Patch returns Sept. 27

One week from tomorrow (Saturday, Sept. 20), the local phenomenon known as “The Orange Glow” will reappear on the lawn on Hamilton Street, across from Town Hall. Volunteers will gather around a semi-trailer truck parked on Hamilton Street for the traditional unloading of the pumpkins. For the 23rd year, First Congregational Church in Saugus Center will host the Annual Pumpkin Patch, which will run from Sept. 27 through Halloween, Oct. 31. Pumpkins of all sizes will be displayed on the church lawn and will be available for purchase every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saugus is one of several communities that participates in a program called Pumpkin Patch USA, which coordinates the destination of the pumpkins from the Navajo Reservation in Farmington, N.M., to communities all over the country. The church and the Navajo Reservation both benefit from the sale of pumpkins. But the agreement the church has with Pumpkin Patch USA won’t allow the sale of any pumpkins after Halloween. Any leftover pumpkins on Nov. 1 will be available for free.

The vast number of visitors who stop to admire the pumpkins wind up taking some home, which contributes to the church and various noble causes. What began as a fund-raiser for the church’s Youth Group has continued to flourish as somewhat of a communitywide autumn attraction. Pumpkin sales have also helped fund the annual Danny Panico Memorial Scholarship Award. Panico, a longtime church member and Pumpkin Patch worker, died in 2017, and the scholarship is meant to honor his contributions.

The “Pumpkin Truck” will arrive on Saturday, Sept. 27, at about 9 a.m. with lots of pumpkins. People who would like to help unload the truck are asked to arrive at the church by 9 a.m. For information, please contact Carl Spencer (781-233-9196). “THE PUMPKIN PATCH” looks forward to having everyone come and enjoy this great fall event.