Pony Express Pumpkinfest returns for 2026 celebration, 30th year

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph Fall season special, known as the Pony Express Pumpkinfest, returns this weekend for lots of activities, performances and more.

The fun kicks off Friday, Oct. 2, and goes through Sunday, Oct. 4. The lighting ceremony for the famous pumpkin mountain will take place at 8 p.m. Friday.

Before the lighting, the St. Joseph Fire Department will present colors, which Pony Express National Museum Director Cindy Daffron said is always a favorite.

"People came up to me in tears and said, Cindy, I've never been at such a moving experience in my entire life," Daffron said proudly. "Standing here with all these people, the pumpkins over here, the flag raising, the national anthem going off, and now I'm doing the pledge. Oh my. It makes me feel like a true American in Saint Joseph, Missouri."

One of the newest additions that Daffron is excited about is a glass-blowing demonstration that specializes in pumpkins.

"She's going to come and be it by the children's area, which will be the East side of the park, which is also by what I call the gazebo," Daffron shared. "She loves to blow pumpkins. And I'm like, ma'am, you are right up my alley. What does it take to get you here? So she'll be here Friday and Saturday."

For a full list of weekend information, click the image below.