CIRCLEVILLE, OH — The Circleville Pumpkin Show, proudly called “The Greatest Free Show
on Earth,” will fill downtown Circleville October 15–18 with four days of parades, music,
contests, and exhibits that cost nothing to enjoy. The event is organized entirely by volunteers
across more than 25 committees, making it one of Ohio’s most remarkable community efforts.
This year’s entertainment will be anchored by the return of McGuffey Lane, who will take the
Savings Bank Stage on Tuesday evening to kick off the festivities after strong demand from the
community. Entertainment Chair Heidi Rogols notes that the lineup also highlights Circleville’s
local talent, with performances from Studio One, the YMCA Creative Arts Center, and Charmion
Performing Arts Center, X-Perience Music, and others. “Each year we work to showcase the
performers who represent our community,” Rogols said. “It is a reflection of the people who
make the Pumpkin Show special.”
The free attractions are as much a draw as the music. Visitors can see the Giant Pumpkin
Display at Court and Main, watch daily craft demonstrations, explore the Art Show and Flower
Show, or stop by the Harvest Tent at Community United Methodist Church for music,
devotionals, and family activities. Memorial Hall will once again host the moving Eyes of
Freedom: Lima Company Memorial, honoring Ohio’s fallen service members. Seven parades,
from the Baby Parade to the Grand OFEA Queens Parade, will wind through downtown during
the week, including the 100th anniversary of the first Pet Parade, a beloved tradition kept alive
by the Circleville Kiwanis Club.
The Pumpkin Show’s reach extends far beyond Circleville. Attendance is estimated at more
than 400,000 people each year, nearly 30 times the city’s population, with more than half of
visitors traveling from outside Pickaway County. A recent study by Ohio University found the
2024 Show generated $1.33 million in value for the Pickaway County economy and more than
$2.1 million statewide.
With no admission fee and no paid staff, the Pumpkin Show is both a community celebration
and an economic powerhouse. Every detail, from parades to concessions, is coordinated by
local volunteers. Their dedication ensures that the Pumpkin Show continues to live up to its
century-old promise: all you can see, without spending a dime.
The 118th Circleville Pumpkin Show runs October 15–18, 2025. More information and a full
schedule of events can be found at www.pumpkinshow.com.
