Pump-Palooza festival in Nieu-Bethesda

NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS - This year’s annual Pump-Palooza in Nieu-Bethesda drew in the crowds at its new venue at ‘Tot Hier Toe Padstal’ at the entrance to the village.

While the severe drought hampered pumpkin growth this year, there were still a few remarkable pumpkins welcoming guests at the gate.

Events kicked off early in the morning with a handful of enthusiasts partaking in the fun run through the autumnal village. During the course of the morning various crafters and foodies set up their stalls in the farmyard behind the Padstal.

Among these The Bethesda Arts Centre sold tasty treats, one could spot Ronel Vywers and the famous Auntie Evelyn selling their wares, resident Jacquie Olivier created artworks for the crowds and sold delightfully decorated cupcakes, the Butterworth clan sold their hand-sewn products as well as delicious food, there were trinkets and pop-guns, candyfloss and roosterkoek, gemmerbier and shelves and shelves of Chrissie’s wonderful bottled goods.

Sheepdogs milled between the legs of visitors, herding little pigs and doves nestled their Easter chicks up high on protected pillars.

It seemed like the perfect weekend to head to Nieu-Bethesda. Saturday’s weather was beautiful. The crowds were entertained by the band VanCoet who wowed the audience with their broad repertoire, and more pumpkins arrived for the final judging which took place in the afternoon. There were beautiful butternuts, humble hubbards and a handful of the malleable Atlantic Giants which really lived up to their names!

Some of the giant pumpkins.

Later on during the day, the prize for the largest pumpkin, weighing in at 177kg, went to the Schoeman brothers who also took second place as well as the prize for the five biggest pumpkins overall. Prizes were allocated for the various categories and everyone who entered went away with a prize and a smile! Soon these pumpkins will be donated to Old Age establishments in the district.