Press release from Nantahala Outdoor Center:
NOC’s Great Pumpkin Pursuit Set for October 25: WNC’s Only Whitewater Pumpkin Toss Flows Through Nantahala Falls
Bryson City, N.C. (October 13, 2014)— Enjoy leaf season in the Smoky Mountains at Nantahala Outdoor Center’s annual NOCtoberfest event on October 25, 2014, from Noon to 5:00 p.m. This free, family-favorite celebration offers activities, live music and prizes for all ages to enjoy.
The most anticipated part of the NOCtoberfest celebration is NOC’s Great Pumpkin Pursuit, a free-for-all dash through Nantahala Falls. Over 400 numbered pumpkins are tossed throughout the Nantahala’s grand finale rapid as paddlers frantically dash to collect as many of the bobbing pumpkins as possible. Contestants are welcome to bring their own boats, rent them on site, or stand along the riverbanks with a net. Registration is between Noon and 2:00 at NOC’s Big Wesser BBQ, and prizes are awarded via raffle: the more pumpkins you collect, the better your chances—it’s a great experience on and off the water.
The Great Pumpkin Pursuit has become a popular spectator event—the 75+ paddlers hurtling through the Falls flip, swim, collide and bumble their way down the river. And some spectators are asked to help distribute the pumpkins for the paddlers, tossing them in hard-to-reach places. The exciting event only takes minutes to play out, so spectators should plan on arriving early. The competitors meeting will be at 2pm, so paddlers should be going through the Falls at 2:30pm.
Other event highlights include:
• Pumpkin Decorating—NOC supplies pumpkins, as well as decorating and carving materials. Every child wins a prize after presenting their works of art to the judging panel.
• Costume Contests—Dress to impress the judges! Costume categories are Kids, Couples, Most in Character and Scariest.
• Live Music—Enjoy a bonfire and live music at Big Wesser BBQ + Brew. S’mores included!
• Cornhole Tournament, Egg Race & More.
For the complete event schedule and more information visit http://noc.com/events/noctoberfest.
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