The Great Pumpkin rises again at Cestari Farms

Francis Chester's broad smile welcomes visitors to his central Shenandoah Valley Cestari Farm in Churchville, Va. Dressed in faded green overalls and flannel shirt, this country lawyer and sheep farmer enjoys the people who turn out for his annual Pumpkin Fest which runs this weekend, October 9-10, and next weekend, October 16-17.

Like an effervescent host, Chester's booming voice can be heard welcoming young and old alike as he guides visitors around the farm. Whether it's wagon rides to the field to pick your own pumpkin from the patch, taking part in the petting zoo, pony rides, or any of the other activities, Pumpkin Fest offers something for everyone.

There are games for the kids along with a haunted house for those who dare to enter! The produce stand will offer fresh baked goods including homemade peach, apple, and pumpkin pies along with fruit, jams, jellies, and preserves.

If you're going to the Cestari Farms Pumpkin Festival, it runs from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, October 9-10 and October 16-17, at Cestari Farm 10 minutes west of Staunton on Rt. 250 in Churchville. For more info, check the website at www.cestariltd.com or call (540) 337-7282.