Common Ground Pumpkin Festival: two food trucks, two live bands, a helicopter, and pumpkin pie

On September 30, 2023, St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Rockton, IL is hosting their second annual Common Ground Pumpkin Festival. Fun runs from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Pumpkins are free, grown in the church's backyard, as well as free slushies.

Everything is free except for two food trucks, which will offer different types of fare.

Listen to music of two live bands, including "Some Friends of Mine." Young ones can decorate pumpkins or play games, including bean bag toss. Put on creative thinking caps while making a scarecrow. 

A pie tasting contest will test baking skills of church members. Voting will determine the winner and the "People's Choice" of the best pie.

Wagon and horseback rides will take visitors on a scenic route.

The REACT helicopter plans to make a special stop on the grounds for guests to explore. Police and fire demonstrations will include "Touch a Truck."

The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog ministry is making a return this year. This ministry was launched in 2008 and is a national human care ministry that embraces the unique, calming nature and skills of purebred Golden Retrievers.

The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are a bridge for compassionate ministry. These dogs are working animals who are trained to interact with people of all ages and circumstances; anyone who is suffering and in need.

This program is offered at no charge to those who need it. Comfort dogs live in homes of caregivers. Dogs serve every day in the community and where they are placed and dispatched in times of disaster and crisis to bring comfort to everyone who is affected by those circumstances, including first responders and volunteers.

This ministry serves in more than 26 states and operates three training facilities in Illinois.

Read about the 2022 Common Ground Pumpkin Festival, held on Sept. 24, 2022.

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