URBANA, Ill. – Pumpkins are big business in Illinois. In 2024, the state harvested more than twice the pumpkin acreage of the next five states combined, topping 485 million pounds. As Illinois ranks No. 1 in both production and processing, it serves as a prime location to bring together growers, industry partners and anyone who enjoys talking pumpkins.

Illinois Extension will kick off the fall season with Pumpkin Field Day on Sept. 3 at Eckert’s Orchard at 951 S. Green Mount Road, Belleville. The day will begin at 10 a.m., and registration includes lunch.

From seasoned commercial growers to those simply curious about Illinois’ signature specialty crop, everyone can enjoy a day centered on pumpkins. Extension educators and university specialists will share the latest research and production insights, giving attendees a close look at how pumpkins are grown, managed, and marketed.

Field day activities include: 

• Research trial tours 

• Topic presentations and speakers 

• Pumpkin variety trials 

• Commercial pumpkin production updates 

• Networking with growers and industry vendors

Commercial Agriculture Specialist Nathan Johanning has spearheaded Pumpkin Field Day in the region since 2014. He is excited to continue the bi-annual event, which showcases a wide range of specialty pumpkins with over 75 varieties of all shapes and colors, gourds, jack-o’-lanterns, pie-sized pumpkins and a few newly released varieties.

“Field day allows growers to ask questions, share what they see at home, and build networks with Extension, fellow growers, industry vendors, and beyond,” Johanning said.

There is no cost to attend. Advance registration by Sept. 1 is required to receive lunch. Dress accordingly for outdoor conditions, as the event will go on rain or shine. Register to attend at go.illinois.edu/PumpkinFieldDay.

For those who work in the pumpkin crop protection or seed industry and wish to be a vendor program sponsor, contact Johanning at njohann@illinois.edu or 618-939-3434.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact Johanning. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.