The Annual Darien Tokeneke Pumpkin Carnival Returns This Week

DARIEN, CT — Planning is in full swing for the annual Tokeneke Pumpkin Carnival, which is scheduled to take place rain or shine on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Old Farm Road in Darien.

A traffic advisory has been issued by the Darien Police Department before the event.

For over 50 years, the Tokeneke Elementary School has been transformed into a Halloween-themed festival and amusement park. The carnival offers something spooky and fun for children both big and small.

Funds raised from the event will be used for future school enrichment programs, field trips and various community events.

"We are so proud to work closely again this year with the Darien community to create a memorable day of family fun. The Pumpkin Carnival is a much-loved event that so many of us look forward to each fall," said Vickie Coghlin, along with fellow Tokeneke parents and Pumpkin Carnival co-chairs Erin Lumpkin and Jessica Murphy, in a news release.

"We wish to thank all of our volunteers and sponsors, who help make this community event so remarkable. Please join us to enjoy the rides, attractions and delicious food!"

The 2023 Pumpkin Carnival will feature a wide variety of attractions and mechanical rides suitable for the whole family.

Thrill-seekers can ride the Ali Baba ride, the Cliffhanger, and Zero Gravity.

Preschoolers are sure to love the cars, trains, and spin rides as well as the Happy Swing. The carnival will also feature a variety of seasonally-themed field games like Pumpkin Plinko, the Apple Launcher and the always popular obstacle course.

Dance on the DL, a local dance studio, will perform during the event. Darien High School art students will alo be on-hand for face painting.

Carnival participants will also be able to enjoy a wide array of tasty foods and beverages from local restaurants and mobile vendors including Burgers Shakes & Fries, Heights Pizza and the Tacos Los Potrillos food truck.

Traditional fairground snacks and refreshments will be available as well as delicious home baked goods offerings at the bake sale.

The Tokeneke Parent Teacher Organization (TPTO), which helps organize the event, is once again partnering with Darien Human Services to provide area families in need aid packages that include free ride and game tickets as well as complimentary food and drinks.

To learn more about the 2023 Pumpkin Carnival please, check out the TPTO on Facebook or Instagram.