New Costco Opens + Giant Pumpkin Contest Winner: Saturday Smiles

It’s a beautiful autumn weekend in the Bay Area and now is a great time to learn more about the winner of the annual Half Moon Bay pumpkin contest and see how an East Bay community celebrated one of its Olympic gold medalists.

Napa Costco Now Open

• Here's what to know about the megastore that was set to open this week at Riversound in Napa.

'Monster': Pumpkin Weighing 2,471 Pounds Wins Half Moon Bay Contest

• This weekend, Half Moon Bay's massive art and pumpkin festival will offer photo opportunities with the grand champion pumpkin named "Rudy".

See Gold Medalist Amit Elor Honored With Hometown Celebration

• See video and photos of the celebration at Civic Park honoring Olympic gold medalist Amit Elor, a Walnut Creek native.

Livermore Police Department Starts Mounted Patrol Unit

• The horseback officers will help with community outreach and difficult missions.

Veteran Stand Down Event Offers Resources, Care

• Veterans and unhoused community members can receive free meals, medical and dental care, counseling, legal advice, haircuts, and more.

Danville Hosting Oktoberfest With 'Walking Beer Garden'

• Grab your lederhosen and sample some of the downtown's most delicious wine and beer.

Festive Holiday Bay Cruises Scheduled From Berkeley

• Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s offerings are available to book now for fall and winter celebrations.

Let us know if you have an idea for a nice news story in your town. Email your story tips to autumn.johnson@patch.com.