On the North Fork, a pumpkin picking tradition

Four-year-old Sam Rosenthal of Oak Beach was in search of the perfect pumpkin for jack-o'-lanterns.

And at the 21st annual Fall Pumpkin Festival at Harbes Family Farmstand and Vineyard in Mattituck, there were plenty to pick from.

"I can't wait to get home and carve the faces," he said after loading his wagon.

According to owner Ed Harbes, the 15-acre pumpkin patch’s choices ranged from 1 to 100 pounds.

"My wife and I have eight children who are grown now. When they were young, we were always looking for fun places to take them and that’s why we started this festival," Harbes said.

Nancy Langmack, of New Suffolk brought her 4-year-old son Henry, who was excited to pump the water while playing the duck races.

"We love coming here. It's the most fun you can have in the fall," she said.

In addition to pumpkin picking, the festival had potato sack and pig races, pony rides, live music, food and wine tastings of about a half dozen wines, including chardonnays and merlots.

"We get a lot of satisfaction out of doing this festival, Harbes said. “The North Fork is simply a great place to come," said Harbes.

Barnyard Manager April Rocchetta added: "We grow pumpkins here and we also give people great memories."

The festival runs Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m to 6 pm through Oct. 30. Admission is $9.95.

For more information, call 631-298-0800, or visit www.harbesfamilyfarm.com.