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Verified Article · Europe — Culture: live coverage

Pumpkimania Festival Transforms Groot-Bijgaarden Castle With Giant Sculptures and Boat Rides

Foxes, owls, and deer made entirely of pumpkins have taken over Groot-Bijgaarden Castle near Brussels for the annual autumn festival running until 1 November.

By 16 Oct 2026 · 14:30 CET Updated 16 Oct 2026 · 14:30 CET
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⚡ EXECUTIVE DISPATCH BRIEF Verified · Culture
  • Core Briefing: Pumpkimania Festival Transforms Groot-Bijgaarden Castle With Giant Sculptures and Boat Rides
  • Strategic Context: Foxes, owls, and deer made entirely of pumpkins have taken over Groot-Bijgaarden Castle near Brussels for the annual autumn festival running until 1 November.
  • Fact Checking & Evidence: Documented status is verified across primary accredited European reporting wires and official filings.
  • Editorial Integrity: Independent coverage adhering to the Europa Express European Press Standards and source verification framework.

AI disclosure: Summarised and contextualised from a named source by an AI model with editorial rules; links to original report.

Key Takeaways

  • The Pumpkimania festival is currently taking place at Groot-Bijgaarden Castle near Brussels.
  • Attractions include animal sculptures made of pumpkins, a 772kg giant pumpkin, and pumpkin boat rides.
  • The seasonal event remains open to visitors until 1 November.

According to Euronews, the Groot-Bijgaarden Castle near Brussels has been transformed by the annual Pumpkimania festival, featuring intricate animal sculptures such as foxes, owls, and deer crafted entirely from pumpkins. The event, which runs until 1 November, showcases a massive 772-kilogram giant pumpkin alongside unique attractions including pumpkin boat rides and various Halloween-themed activities designed for visitors of all ages. This whimsical autumn celebration reflects a broader European seasonal trend where historic heritage sites increasingly host contemporary cultural and agritourism events to boost local economies and attract domestic and international visitors. Such festivals highlight regional agricultural produce while activating historic European landmarks outside the peak summer tourism window, aligning with sustainable tourism initiatives promoted across several member states. For citizens and local businesses, the festival provides a significant seasonal boost to regional tourism, hospitality, and family-oriented recreation in the Brussels periphery. Attendees planning to visit the castle grounds before the conclusion of the event must secure their participation ahead of the 1 November closing date, as preparations transition toward the winter season.

Source: Euronews. Read the original report ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Pumpkimania festival taking place?

The festival is being held at Groot-Bijgaarden Castle, located near Brussels in Belgium.

Until what date can visitors attend the festival?

The event runs until 1 November.

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