Pumpkin Festival still planned for October 14 to 15

The organizers of the Pumpkin Festival have announced that they are planning to hold the event as scheduled on October 14 and 15. They are planning for the contingency that the Devil’s Slide repairs may not be complete in time for the event which overloads Highway 92 every year, even when Highway 1 is operational.

Click to read the press release.

Cameron Palmer, Chairman of the Half Moon Bay Beautification Committee, issued the following statement today regarding the 2006 Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival:

"In light of rumors and speculation swirling about the Pumpkin Festival due to the closure of Devil’s Slide, we want to send a strong and clear message to the community that we are absolutely committed to holding this year’s 36th annual festival on October 14-15. There’s a lot at stake for our community and we are forging ahead with preparations."

"We were pleased to hear Caltrans announce the anticipated re-opening of Devil’s Slide by mid to late September. Although their timeline leaves little room for a setback, we are optimistic and confident that Caltrans will complete the work on time."

"To cover all scenarios, we have set contingency plans in motion in case there are delays in re-opening the road. We’re in preliminary discussions with the San Mateo County Fairgrounds about using their parking lot as a potential staging area for a shuttle service which would help ease congestion in Highway 92."

"For our committee, planning and operating the festival is a year-round effort. We’re in the process of jurying and processing artist applications, booking entertainment, securing sponsors, readying publicity, and conducting the day to day business of planning for a major event."

"We also realize it is a significant undertaking and fund-raiser for the non-profit groups that participate in the festival. Many derive a substantial percentage of their annual funding through the festival. By setting the record straight, we want to remove any lingering doubts about the festival so these organizations can move forward with their planning and preparations."

Media contacts should be made through the Beautification Committee media relations office at 650-726-3491.
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Tim Beeman             
Miramar Events         
tel: 650-726-3491
fx:  650-726-5181
http://www.miramarevents.com/