ROME - Fall is almost here, and so are the pumpkins - the first "Pumpkin Festival," that is.

The Lawrence County Pumpkin Festival will be Sept. 8-11 at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds.

In its first year for the festival, organizers Frank and Emma Call hope the community will come take part in the activities.

"We just hope that everyone comes out to enjoy it," Frank Call said.

Attractions will include arts and crafts, inflatable play areas, a pie-eating contest, a demolition derby and, of course, pumpkins.

Contests will be offered for the

largest pumpkin, the best dressed pumpkin, best pumpkin cake, best pie and best brownies.

"Anything to do with pumpkins, we are going to have," Frank Call said.

On Sept. 8 and 9, organizers are inviting the schools to come out for a sort of a field day, Call said.

An ever-popular demolition derby will be on Sept. 10.

Everyone is invited to attend the festival.

"We hope that we have a good turnout," Call said.

For more information about the festival, contact organizers Frank and Emma Call at (740) 646-2215.