Annual Pumpkin Festival Calabasas Celebrates

Photos by Samantha Bravo

Did you know that Calabasas got its name from the Spanish word “Calabaza,” meaning “pumpkin” or “gourd”? Local legend has it that over 200 years ago, the famous explorer Juan Bautista de Anza was traveling through the area when one of his wagons, loaded with pumpkins, overturned. A few months later, the region saw its first pumpkin patch!

Fast forward to today, and the Calabasas community continues to embrace this fun history at the annual Calabasas Pumpkin Festival, held at Juan Bautista de Anza Park. Locals and visitors alike came together to celebrate the town’s namesake with an exciting day of family-friendly activities. Attendees had the chance to explore the Marketplace, where they shopped for unique handmade goods and local products. They also enjoyed sampling delicious pumpkin-inspired dishes and indulged in seasonal treats. With live music, dancing, and plenty of entertainment for all ages, the festival was a hit. The pumpkin patch was a must-visit for anyone looking to pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating.

This year’s Pumpkin Festival brought the spirit of Calabasas’ history to life, celebrating the town’s heritage with creativity, community, and, of course, pumpkins! Mark your calendars for next year—it’s an event you won’t want to miss!