The 28th annual PumpkinFest will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 19, in downtown Franklin. 

The 17th annual “Pumpkin Fest” will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, in downtown Franklin. A wide array of events and activities in the spirit of Halloween — including the ever-popular Pumpkin Roll — will be offered throughout the weekend.

Festivities kick off Friday evening with the game “Find the Black Cat” from 5 to 8 p.m. Several merchants in Franklin will each have a black cat hidden in plain view in their business. For each black cat patrons locate, they’ll receive a card. Prizes will be awarded depending on the number of cards collected. An extra prize may be given out if costumes are worn. Special shopping deals will also be available at participating businesses. Winners will be announced at 8:15 p.m. at Books Unlimited. For more information, call 828.369.7942.

Historic Downtown Franklin is gearing up for the 15th Annual Pumpkinfest to be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22. During this event you can take part in some traditional and some very non-traditional fall festivities.

Bring your pumpkin (or purchase one downtown) and sign up early for the World Famous Pumpkin Roll sponsored by the Franklin Fun Factory. The “roll” takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with signup running from 9 to 1. The winner receives $100 cash. Other highlights of the day include a pumpkin carving contest sponsored by DNET, a costume parade and contest along with crafters, food, and live entertainment for all ages.

Among this year’s acts scheduled to perform is Magic by Chaz. Magician Chaz Misenheimer, a North Carolina native, is a festival specialist with more than 20 years experience and though he often performs from the stage, he’s best known as an elite roving entertainer.

Roxy, the miniature horse, will be back offering rides to kids beginning at 10 a.m. Roxy, a pintaloosa, will be located in front of the Macon County Historical Society on Main Street. There is a rider weight limit of 80 pounds. A small fee will be charged.  

www.pumpinfestfranklin.com or 828.524.2516.