Celebrate the eleventh annual Oxfordshire Pumpkin Festival with us from Monday 21st of October to Sunday 3rd of November 2024!

Why Do We Need a Pumpkin Festival?

Did you know that each year, a staggering 18,000 tonnes of perfectly edible pumpkins are wasted in the UK? That’s equivalent to filling approximately 1,500 double-decker buses! Even more shocking, 60% of people who buy pumpkins don’t use the flesh for cooking. At Good Food Oxfordshire, we believe this is truly frightening, so, since 2013 we’ve been committed to reducing pumpkin waste across the county.

Pumpkin waste is part of a larger food waste problem, with about 1/3 of all food produced globally going to waste. This waste contributes significantly to carbon emissions, as rotting food in landfills produces methane (a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide).

Our goal is to change how people see pumpkins – not just as Halloween decorations but as delicious, nutritious food that can help reduce food waste and save money.

Get Involved and Make a Difference!

We’re inviting local community groups to join us in our mission to reduce food waste. Do you have a creative idea for a pumpkin-themed event? Sign up now and receive £100 to support your event focused on reducing pumpkin waste.

Not a community group but still want to take part?

- Host a pumpkin-rescue event: Share your ideas and get help to make them happen!

- Share your recipes: Have a fantastic pumpkin or squash recipe? Let’s spread the word.

- Spread the word: Share our social media posts about pumpkin waste and local events (don't forget to use our hashtags: #EatYourPumpkin and #PumpkinRescue).

- Donate: Help us extend our support by topping up our mini grants.

- Explore our free pumpkin recipes and tips to help reduce your food waste so you can make the most of this versatile vegetable!

The annual Oxfordshire Pumpkin Festival is organised by Good Food Oxfordshire, with special thanks to Oxfordshire County Council.