Virginia Grown Pumpkins are Delivered to Virginia’s Executive Mansion

October 4, 2024
Virginia Grown Pumpkins are Delivered to Virginia's Executive Mansion
~ Presentation celebrates fall and kicks off Pumpkin Month in the Commonwealth ~

Virginia grown pumpkins from fourth generation family-owned Parrish View Farms, in Kenbridge, Va., were delivered to Virginia's Executive Mansion and presented to First Lady Suzanne Youngkin today.

The delivery of Virginia grown pumpkins is an annual tradition organized by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Virginia Pumpkin Growers' Association to celebrate fall and recognize October as Virginia Pumpkin Month.

"It's an honor to carry on this fall tradition and have the opportunity to meet Virginia farmers who not only help feed us, but also bring so much family fun to the Commonwealth during this exciting season," First Lady Suzanne Youngkin said. "The Governor and I will take great joy from these pumpkins during Virginia Pumpkin Month, and we thank the Parrish family for sharing their bounty with us."

First Lady Youngkin presented the Parrish family with a proclamation from Governor Glenn Youngkin designating October as Virginia Pumpkin Month. The proclamation acknowledges the work of the nearly 400 pumpkin growers who cultivate and harvest pumpkins in the Commonwealth and recognizes the value of pumpkins to the state's economy. In 2023, Virginia farmers harvested approximately 4,600 acres of pumpkins with fresh market production valued at $15.5 million, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Virginia ranks ninth nationally in pumpkin production.

"The many farms and agritourism destinations across the Commonwealth make Virginia an ideal place to be during the fall season," said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr. "I encourage Virginia families, residents, and visitors to make the most of the season by visiting pumpkin patches in the Commonwealth and supporting local agriculture.

Make plans now to get your Virginia grown pumpkins at a pick-your-own farm, farmers' market, roadside stand, or grocery store near you. Farmers began harvesting pumpkins around Labor Day and will continue until Halloween, making October the perfect time to visit a farm to purchase pumpkins to complete fall decorating, or to enjoy in your favorite pumpkin recipe. Search VirginiaGrown.com for a Virginia pumpkin retailer near you.