Spalding Pumpkin Festival and Bell's Pumpkin Patch make Halloween returns - with funfair rides and maze

Two huge Halloween events are back this year near Peterborough.

Pumpkin Festival

Organised by South Holland District Council, the events take place in the Gardens of Ayscoughfee Hall and Spalding town centre.

On 7 October, in Ayscoughfee, visitors will find harvest-themed gardens with decorations and a illuminated trail, featuring pumpkin sculptures by artist Jonathan Nicholls.There is also a fire garden with fire-lit sculptures and a fire performer, alongside garden games, live music and barn dancing.The sold out event on Friday is free but there is a waiting list for tickets.

Councillor Gary Taylor said: “The Pumpkin Festival is always one of the highlights of the year in Spalding, and I can’t wait for this year’s event, with a fantastic range of activities and entertainment to get involved with over the two days.“I’d like to encourage everyone to come along and get involved, and take part in this celebration of our local harvest and horticulture.”On 8 October, visitors can buy food, crafts and gifts – alongside the usual Saturday market traders.

Games will continue among street entertainment, live performances and scarecrow competitions with rides on ‘pedal tractor corner’.There is a chance for children to meet Cinderella and see her carriage, before taking a stroll down ‘Pumpkin Street’ with carved pumpkin sculptures decorating Bridge Street.There is a road closure in place for Spalding’s Sheep Market and Gore Lane on 8 October from 7am until 4.30pm – tickets aren't needed.

Bell’s Pumpkin Patch

Visitors to Bells Pumpkin patch in Boston can carve their own pumpkins on site – after picking pumpkins from two patches.

One field is filled with orange pumpkins while the other has specialist squash.

There will also be two photo stations on site for all ages – alongside the ‘UK’s largest pumpkin cannon’ and maize maze.

Children can enjoy rides on tractors, the tiny tots area, bouncy inflatable pumpkin and ‘potato cata-pults’, as well as the bounce and climb full of hay bales.

Complimentary cheek art is on offer too, free of charge.

This year sees the addition of a new Makers Market – with food, art and craft sellers – and funfair rides, including carousel, swing boats, chair-o-planes.

The ticketed event runs from October 15.