CIRCLEVILLE – For Amanda-Clearcreek High School’s Kalilah Jarrell, the Circleville Pumpkin Show isn’t just an annual event — it’s a tradition rooted in family, food, and community pride. Now, as a candidate for Miss Pumpkin Show, she hopes to represent those values on the biggest stage of the Greatest Free Show on Earth.
Jarrell sat down to answer questions about her favorite traditions, inspirations, and why becoming Pumpkin Show Queen would be such an honor.
What does the Pumpkin Show mean to you personally, and how has it shaped your life growing up here?
“For me, the Pumpkin Show means more than just an annual event — it’s a tradition that brings everyone together as a community, no matter how near or far they live from Circleville. The Pumpkin Show has taught me to support people and value the wonderful community we have. I’ve made many memories I will forever cherish, and I can’t wait to continue making memories and celebrating this amazing tradition.”
If you were describing the Pumpkin Show to someone who’s never been, what would you tell them?
“I would explain it as an annual traditional festival where multiple communities come together to support one another. There’s food, live music, parades, rides, and plenty of pumpkin-based treats. There are also fun contests like the Miss Pumpkin Show Pageant, the Biggest Pumpkin competition, and even Best Decorated Golf Cart. Truly, there’s something for everyone at the Pumpkin Show.”
What’s your favorite Pumpkin Show tradition, and why?
“It’s hard to pick just one, but I really enjoy the Miss Pumpkin Show Pageant — and, of course, the food. Every year my family and I know exactly what we want to eat: pumpkin waffles, pumpkin donuts, Wisconsin cheese curds, and frozen sweet tea. It’s become a tradition for us, and I love it.”
What’s a personal accomplishment you are most proud of, and how does it reflect who you are?
“One accomplishment I’m most proud of is being elected as a candidate for Miss Pumpkin Show Queen. Having my peers choose me to represent our school means so much. I’ve always looked up to the queens before me — seeing their hard work and big smiles inspired me to pursue this opportunity. It reflects who I am because when I set my mind to something, I’m determined and passionate about achieving it.”
Who inspires you most, and what lesson have you learned from them?
“My mom has inspired me the most. She’s been by my side through every up and down, encouraging me to try new things and supporting me no matter what. She’s also taught me one of the most important lessons — to never change who I am to fit in. The only person I need to live up to is myself.”
What’s your favorite pumpkin-flavored treat at the show?
“Definitely Lindsey’s Bakery pumpkin donuts. They have the perfect amount of pumpkin flavor and the glaze is just right.”
What’s the funniest or most memorable Pumpkin Show experience you’ve had?
“One of my funniest and most memorable moments was when my dad and I got matching light-up cowgirl hats. He made me a deal that if I wore mine around the Pumpkin Show, he would too. We wore them the entire night — even out to dinner afterward — and it’s a memory I’ll never forget.”
Why do you want to be Miss Pumpkin Show, and what would it mean to you to win?
“I want to become Miss Pumpkin Show because I want to spread the tradition of the Greatest Free Show on Earth while making a positive impact on the community and representing my school. If I were to win, it would mean so much. It would be an honor to represent Circleville and share this tradition all across Ohio.”
What advice would you give to a younger girl who dreams of running for Miss Pumpkin Show someday?
“My advice would be to always be yourself and believe in yourself. With the right mindset, you can achieve anything. And no matter the outcome, you should be proud of yourself for taking the chance.”
