The Pelham Children’s Center hosted Saturday its annual Pumpkin Festival at the Townhouse Gazebo, a 35-year tradition and the biggest fundraiser for the nonprofit that has served the town for more than 50 years.

“We have pumpkins for sale, slides, pony rides, raffle items and live music played by Pelham residents,” said Steve Madey, director of the Pelham Children’s Center.

The festival began with a 5K race, which was run at 8 a.m. and was open to runners of all ages. The winners of the 5K received pies and medals. It was followed by the fun run at 9 a.m.

For the fun run, candy and medals went to everyone who participated. It started with a quick round of “Simon Says” and then the runners took off on the half-mile course. It was open to children 12 and under. Both races started and finished on Harmon Avenue.

“It was fun and nice to see a lot of people racing,” said Mike Sheeran, first-place winner of the 5K race.

After the races, the main event kicked off with live music and fun activities for the families, including face painting, raffles, inflatable slides and pony rides. A variety of pumpkins were sold for five to fifteen dollars. Popcorn and cotton candy were available, along with coffee and apple-cider doughnuts.

“The pony ride was fun, and his name is Cookie,” said Alexandra Fabozzi.

The Pumpkin Festival gave Pelham residents the opportunity to check out different organizations and vendors, such as Healthy Yards and the Mellstrom, Bischof, Ritchie Real Estate Team. The Healthy Yards organization works to make gardening and landscapes more sustainable by eliminating the use of chemicals and building climate resilience.

The PCC also held its annual book sale. Customers paid a $30 entrance fee to fill up a huge bag with as many books as they could carry.

“This is quintessential small-town life, and it is great seeing so many of our neighbors celebrating the season,” said Village of Pelham Mayor Chance Mullen. “I think we’re lucky to have the Pelham Children’s Center doing this.”