From Staff Reports
COCHRAN — A beloved hometown tradition is coming back in a big way this fall as the Cochran-Bleckley Chamber of Commerce has announced the return of The Great Pumpkin Festival, celebrating 50 years since the festival first originated.
Set for Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, the festival will once again transform downtown Cochran into a celebration of community, featuring a full day of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, local vendors, classic cars, contests, delicious food and an evening capped by fireworks.
Festival activities will take place from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., offering something for visitors of every age.
For many residents, the Great Pumpkin Festival is more than just an event on the calendar. It is a tradition that spans generations, bringing together families, friends and neighbors to celebrate the arrival of fall while creating memories that last a lifetime. This year’s festival marks a significant milestone as the community celebrates five decades since the event first began.
“This festival has been part of Cochran’s story for 50 years,” Chamber officials said in announcing the event. “We’re excited to bring it back and celebrate everything that makes our community special.”
The day’s activities include the Pumpkin Classic Car Show, Pumpkin Run, Pumpkin Growing Contest, Pumpkin Vendor Patch, Pumpkin Rock Hunt, Kid Zone, Scarecrow Contest, Pumpkin Decorating Contest and live entertainment throughout the day.
The celebration actually begins a week earlier with the Miss Pumpkin Pageant, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10.
As the festival transitions into the evening, downtown Cochran will come alive with the Pumpkin Street Dance. Stacii and the Blackwater Haze Band will perform from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m., followed by Rivertown Breakdown from 7:30 until 9:30 p.m.
The festivities will conclude with a fireworks show at 9:15 p.m., providing a colorful finale to the community celebration.
In addition to entertainment, visitors can expect a variety of food vendors, shopping opportunities, seasonal displays and activities designed to showcase the spirit of Cochran and Bleckley County.
The festival is expected to draw visitors from across Middle Georgia, providing an opportunity for local businesses, civic organizations and vendors to welcome guests while highlighting everything the community has to offer.
Whether attendees are reliving fond memories from festivals past or experiencing the event for the first time, the return of The Great Pumpkin Festival promises to honor its rich history while creating new traditions for future generations.
Residents are encouraged to save the date and make plans to spend Saturday, Oct. 17, in downtown Cochran celebrating 50 years of one of the community’s most cherished fall traditions.
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