CIRCLEVILLE — Peyton McLaughlin, a candidate for Miss Pumpkin Show from Circleville High School, opened up about her lifelong connection to the iconic festival, sharing memories, traditions, and her motivations for running in this year’s contest.
For Peyton, the Pumpkin Show is more than just a yearly event—it’s a cornerstone of her childhood and community.
“From the time I was five months old and my identical twin sister and I were placed in the baby contest, my parents have taken us daily from the time it begins to the time it ends,” she said. “We even go on Sunday before it starts to walk around and look for our favorite booths and vendors. Volunteering at food booths, running around with friends—these experiences have made the Pumpkin Show a central part of my life in Circleville.”
Describing the festival to someone who has never attended, Peyton doesn’t hold back her enthusiasm:
I would tell them that it is magical. Some kids love to go to Walt Disney World. I have always said, “Who needs Disney World when you have the Pumpkin Show?!” People from all around the country and the world come to Circleville during the 3rd week of October every year to experience and see the agricultural showcase that our town provides. From the record-breaking pumpkins, gourd displays, food, parades, contests, arts and crafts, vendors, games, and more, there is something for everyone at the Circleville Pumpkin Show!
A Tradition of Family, Fun, and Community
When asked about her favorite Pumpkin Show tradition, Peyton immediately points to the Miss Pumpkin Show contest itself. “As a small child, I grew up looking forward to the parade and watching the contest with my family and friends. I loved wearing a t-shirt to cheer for candidates from my school district. Now, I get the opportunity to experience it firsthand—it’s a dream come true.”
Her connection to the festival isn’t just about fun; it’s about accomplishment and personal growth. Peyton highlighted her involvement with the Circleville High School Cheer Competition Team as a point of pride. “I had never tried cheerleading before, but with encouragement from my coaches, I joined the team as a sophomore. I worked hard to learn the routines and the sport itself, and the icing on the cake was when we won the MSL championship,” she said. “It showed me the value of hard work, determination, and trying new things.”
Inspiration, Community, and Pumpkin Treats
Peyton credits her PRCTC Agriculture/FFA teacher, Mrs. Megan Freeman, as a major inspiration. “She teaches the value of hard work, responsibility, organization, and compassion,” Peyton said. “She inspires me daily to be the best I can be.”
Like many local kids, Peyton has fond memories tied to the flavors of the festival. Her favorite treat? The Circleville Athletic Boosters’ pumpkin bread. “As a child, I spent time at Renee McIlory’s house while my parents were working, watching her bake loaf after loaf and sending them home with me. When I smell that pumpkin bread, I know the Pumpkin Show is here,” she shared.
Memorable Moments and Lifelong Bonds
Some of Peyton’s most cherished memories involve sharing the festival with her identical twin sister. One standout moment occurred during the Little Miss Pumpkin Show contest. “Her group went first, and she moved on to the next round. When I also advanced, she began dancing in her seat. It was the perfect day for us to experience together,” she said.
Running for Miss Pumpkin Show
For Peyton, competing for the crown is about more than recognition—it’s about representing her hometown. “Being Miss Pumpkin Show would mean everything to me,” she said. “The crown and sash would be a symbol of the pride I have for this community. It would be an honor to represent the town I love with grace and class.”
She also has advice for future candidates: “Always be true to yourself and your values. When your time comes, take it all in and enjoy every moment.”
Looking Ahead
As the Circleville Pumpkin Show approaches, Peyton McLaughlin stands ready to showcase her passion for her community, her love of tradition, and her desire to represent the town that has shaped her life. From childhood memories to personal achievements, she embodies the spirit of the festival that has been a central part of Circleville for generations.
Peyton McLaughlin is one of 13 contestants vying for the 2025 Miss Pumpkin Show crown. She will make her first appearance in the Wednesday Night Parade on October 15th, followed by the competition for Queen at Pumpkin Show Park immediately afterward.
