By Anica Hattingh
Celebrating its third annual Pumpkin Day on 1 March, Babylonstoren welcomed visitors – young and old – to take part in their pumpkin themed festivities. From pumpkin-themed ten-pin bowling, pumpkin carving, pit spitting and even a pumpkin slingshot, there were enough activities to keep visitors entertained for the day.
As soon as visitors arrived at the historic farmlands located in the Cape Winelands, they were met with a charged atmosphere – children laughing and parents charged with as much excitement as their little ones. The pumpkin day was not only enjoyed by families, but also by a few students.
“It was inspiring to see so many people doing what they love,” said Holly Muggeridge, second-year BCom (Supply Chain Management and Logistics) student, who shared her experience on the day’s events. “As a student, I feel inspired and have great memories from Pumpkin Day,” she continued, explaining how the farm’s preparation and the visitors’ enjoyment created a lively atmosphere that made the event meaningful for everyone who attended.
At the ticket office, children received booklets with a page for all their activities’ stamps. As soon as the page was complete, they could make their way over to the ice cream cart for a free scoop of pumpkin flavoured gelato. Adults, who received a map of the Babylonstoren garden, could enjoy a few treats too. The farm prepared pumpkin-flavoured koeksisters, marigold cordial and loofahs (grown in their own gardens).
Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes were placed throughout the garden. The Snail, a green metal structure that helps the pumpkins to trail upwards, created a perfect arch of yellows, greens and oranges as visitors walked under the pumpkin varieties. Babylonstoren grow all their pumpkin varieties from seeds. With over 40 varieties such as the Turk’s turban – also lovingly called monkey’s bum, the pumpkin team have been tenderly caring for their collection since the start of summer. The collection was then proudly showcased in The Puff Adder, a 70-meter-long walkway that stretches along a quiet stream, beneath blue gum trees.
Also on display, was the Atlantic giant pumpkin that is currently on loan from a neighbouring farm. This orange giant is estimated to weigh between 300 to 400 kilograms and brought an additional fun-filled activity to the day as visitors tried to guess its true weight.
With much to do and see on the day, gardeners and visitors alike were glad to see the sunlight break through the rain clouds. A highly anticipated day was spared from cancellation and the day could go ahead as planned. The next big calendar event of the year is Babylonstoren’s annual Garden Day hosted in the first week of October.
If you’re intrigued to see everything you can do with a pumpkin, head on over to Babylonstoren or keep an eye out for their next Pumpkin Day!
