CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — The Circleville Pumpkin Show is officially underway, marking the 118th year of the beloved central Ohio tradition.

Founded in 1903 to showcase the agriculture community of Pickaway County, the event has grown from a single city block to a sprawling 12-block festival featuring over 400 vendors, according to Circleville Mayor Michelle Blanton.

"It's the greatest free show on earth," Blanton said, noting that organizers expect 400,000 people to attend over the four-day event. "We attract all 50 states and different countries every year."

The show's impact extends far beyond entertainment. Citing an economic development study at Ohio University, Blanton said the festivities generate more than $4 million "through our local stores, through the people that you see here at

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