There is plenty to see and do at Half Moon Bay’s world-famous Art & Pumpkin Festival, October 17-18, but nothing gets you up close and personal to the Great Gourd as the Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest. The pie eating contests take place in the Bank of America Family Fun Zone, located in the Bank of America parking lot, 620 Main Street in Half Moon Bay.

“To me, the pie eating contest embodies the essence of Pumpkin Festival,” said Wilbur Collins, the spiritual and emotional leader of the contest organizing team for many years. “It encourages participation, it’s loads of fun, and it’s open to everyone. Seeing kids with face and hair full of gooey pumpkin pie, whipped cream and a big smile, it’s a truly sight to behold.”

The contest takes place Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. for kids 11 and under and at 2:15 p.m. for “kids” 12 and over. To enter, claim your spot at the table and you will be handed a 9-inch pumpkin pie loaded with whipped cream to consume. The winners are chosen by audience applause, so style, flair and humor count as much as anything.