NOCtoberbest will kick off with a pumpkin decorating session — pumpkins, decorations and carving materials supplied — and award all children a prize for their finished creations. A costume contest, campfire, corn hole contest and live music will also keep the day festive. 

But much of the day will center around the Great Pumpkin Pursuit, a free-for-all paddling dash through Nantahala Falls as participants collect pumpkins floating in the water en route to the finish. Three NOC rafts filled with pumpkins will lead the pumpkin dash, with expert guides tossing pumpkins out as they go. Kayakers will then rush to gather as many pumpkins as possible. Spectators along the bank are also allowed to gather pumpkins that wash ashore. Numbers written on the pumpkins will correspond to raffle tickets.

Free. NOC is located along U.S. 74 about 14 miles west of Bryson City. Full schedule is online at www.noc.com/events.