WHILE THERE likely will be no frost on the pumpkins, orange gourds will be in their full glory this week in Barnesville.

The 47th annual Pumpkin Festival is on tap in the western Belmont County community. The festival has blossomed into an annual rite of late September, attracting individuals from near and far alike.

The pumpkin extravaganza officially opens Thursday. However, much transpires prior to the ribbon-cutting.

The festival royalty was crowned Sunday night. On Wednesday night one of the week’s highlights will be staged — that being the King Pumpkin Weigh-In. The scales will be pushed to the limit as entrants may reach four figures.

With the royalty and King Pumpkin being crowned, that sets the table for a delicious and large menu of activities, musical entertainment and food. More is offered in the form of arts and crafts, contests and rides for the children.

For those who like to read, the Watt Center Book Sale on Thursday will offer many novel selections. Those wishing to take some pumpkin recipes home can do so as the Pumpkin Festival Cookbook will be on sale.

The Festival Pet Show will be staged Saturday while a 5K run/walk and classic car show also will likely be popular attractions.

Something for everyone can be found on the streets of Barnesville, even a tall tales contest. No lie.

With all those events serving as tasty trimmings, pumpkins — in their full autumnal splendor — take center stage. We encourage everyone to take a trip to Barnesville this week for a giant slice of Americana at its sweetest.