NORWICH – With autumn at its peak, thousands are expected to make their way to East and West parks in downtown Norwich this weekend for one last community-based event of the season as the 15th Annual Pumpkin Festival gets underway.

For over a decade, the Pumpkin Festival has been a great opportunity for local residents to enjoy a variety of family-friendly games, contests, activities and entertainment. Despite its new time - earlier this year than ever before - event organizers promise the same old Pumpkin Fest traditions with the all the sights, sounds, and smells of fall in the heart of Norwich.

The two-day celebration kicks off Friday evening and events will continue throughout the day on Saturday.

“We are hoping that by having the Pumpkin Festival earlier, we will see some better weather,” said Julie Wallen, vice president for the Norwich Pumpkin Festival Committee. In its 15-year history, Pumpkin Fest has been plagued by rain, snow and cold, she added. “But it doesn’t matter what the weather holds. This is something that will go on, rain or shine.”

The festivities begin Friday night with Fritz’s Polka Band, set to take the spotlight on the East Park stage from 4:30 until 7 p.m.

“That’s a great way to start the festival,” said Wallen. “They always bring a big crowd in.”