By Steffen Klenk
Looking for the perfect pumpkin this fall? Central United Methodist Church in Linwood may be the spot for you. Each year, the church hosts its annual pumpkin sale, a tradition that has grown significantly since it began 20 years ago. Thousands of pumpkins line the church’s grounds along Shore Road, eagerly awaiting customers.
Each fall, over 8,000 pumpkins are delivered to the church from Farmington, New Mexico, home to the Navajo Indian Reservation. There, more than 1,200 acres—approximately two square miles—of pumpkins are harvested between September and October. A portion of the proceeds from the sale supports the Navajo Nation, with the remainder benefiting the ministries at Central United Methodist Church.
Pastor David Yun notes that while the sale has faced challenges over the years, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, recent seasons have been some of the most successful. “We don’t always sell out,” Pastor Yun says, “but in the last five years, we’ve sold out pretty much every year.”
Since 2020, the church has seen a steady increase in community engagement. More people are attending, interested in fellowship and contributing to the local area. Pastor Yun sees the pumpkin sale as more than just a fundraiser. “It’s a great conversation starter and an opportunity for people to visit the sanctuary and learn more about faith,” he says.
The sale, which runs from mid-September through Halloween, is supported by an army of volunteers, many of whom come from the surrounding community. Last month, the Mainland girls soccer team helped unload the pumpkins on delivery day. This year, up to 30 volunteers are scheduled to work rotating shifts throughout the sale. One of those volunteers is Mainland High School student Will Tracy, who enjoys giving back to the church. “It makes me feel good to be of service and to contribute,” says Tracy.
Whether you’re looking for a pumpkin to carve, decorate, paint, or cook, you’re sure to find what you need at Central United Methodist Church. The annual Pumpkin Sale is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will continue until the end of October—or until all the pumpkins are sold. Friendly volunteers will be on hand to assist with any questions or help you find the perfect pumpkin.
Central United Methodist Church is located at 5 Marvin Ave., at the corner of Shore Road in Linwood. For more information, email office@cumcnj.org.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
