The Klaistow Farm near Berlin has transformed into a vibrant celebration of pumpkins, drawing thousands of visitors to its annual Pumpkin Festival. Now in its 22nd year, the event showcases over 100,000 pumpkins of 500 varieties from around the world, each meticulously labeled with its name and origin. The festival, which began in 2004 as Germans embraced the American tradition of Halloween, has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting up to 12,000 visitors on weekends and 5,000 on weekdays. This year’s theme, “Women’s Power,” features 15 larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures depicting iconic figures such as Frida Kahlo, Pippi Longstocking, and Cleopatra. The festival also offers a culinary journey with pumpkin-inspired dishes, from stuffed pumpkin to pumpkin crème brûlée. Families can explore the farm’s winding paths, marveling at creative displays like Marge Simpson’s hair made of winter squash and Elsa from “Frozen” adorned in pale yellow pumpkins. The event not only celebrates the pumpkin’s versatility but also highlights its historical journey from America to Europe, as recounted by Antje Winkelmann, co-owner of the family-run farm. Visitors can purchase 30 different types of pumpkins and indulge in a variety of pumpkin delicacies, making it a must-visit autumn destination.
At a pumpkin festival near Berlin, powerful women take shape — one gourd at a time
