Kasterlee is known as the pumpkin village and the inhabitants of Kasterlee are known as "pompoenpapeters" (i.e. pumpkin mash eaters). In October, Kasterlee is under the spell of this huge orange fruit and the whole village turns into a pumpkin-mania.

Pumpkins can be found everywhere in the streets and delicious pumpkin dishes are served in the restaurants. Many pumpkin events are organized in Kasterlee: pumpkin day, pumpkin regatta, pumpkin walk and so much more. The events during this month will make your stay worthwhile:

history
“Kasterlee eet pompoenen, d’anderen vreten bonen”. (In Kasterlee, people eat pumpkins, others eat beans) Around 1700 pumpkin mash was the food at the fair in Kasterlee. At that time the potato was not yet known (it was imported in 1749). Because the daily nutrition were beans and in Kasterlee people ate pumpkins, the inhabitants were ridiculed with the name 'pumpkin mash eaters'. 

gastronomy
During the month October, a lot of restaurants use their skills to make the most delicious and wonderful pumpkin dishes. You also get the chance to make these dishes yourself. 
There are 3 editions of  “Pompoenen Culinair”, a pumpkin recipe book with original recipes of chefs in Kasterlee. The books are for sale at the tourist information centre.

pumpkin association
The pumpkin association was founded in 1990. Every year they grow exceptionally large pumpkins (< 484,5 kg) that win often prizes. 
More info: www.pompoenengenootschap.be

tales on Sunday
There are also pumpkins on Goblin mountain! In the entire forest there are pumpkin statues between the goblins. The story-tellers expect you every Sunday at the entrance of Goblin Mountain for interesting stories that last 2 hours (3,50 euro/child).  Only in Dutch.

pumpkin monuments
Every year in October pumpkin monuments brighten up the squares of Kasterlee, Lichtaart and Tielen.
They are made by local associations.

kids Halloween in Bobbejaanland
Come during the autumn holidays to the amusement park Bobbejaanland and shiver! Discover bats and giant spiders. Enjoy the company of famous people of Flanders during the evening opening (until 22.00). At the end of the evening there will be fireworks!
Info: www.bobbejaanland.be

'Heemerf De Waaiberg'
Every second Sunday of the month this place full of history (Heemerf) opens up to visitors. 'Heemerf De Waaiberg' reflects the life of people around the 19th-20th century. In October this domain offers you all kinds of activities around pumpkins. You can also watch people make bread (old style), old crafts,... The windmill is also open for visitors.
More info: tourist information centre Kasterlee.

pumpkin walk (17 October 2010)
Take a walk with a guide in a rural environment alongside pumpkin breeders. During this magnificent walk you get more information about the breeding of pumpkins by experienced breeders.

pumpkin day (31 October 2010)
Every last Sunday of October the centre of Kasterlee becomes one big event! There will be different stands and entertainment at the market. Try pumpkin gin, pumpkin beer, pumpkin fries, pumpkin bread. The climax of the day is the weighting of the heaviest pumpkin. The tourist information centre is also open!
Opening hours: 10.00 – 18.00

pumpkin regatta (7 november 2010)
Different associations of Kasterlee and the region will navigate their way through the water in a pumpkin! The first one to arrive at the finish, wins! There are series for women, men and youngsters. Curious? Come and see this event on the 8th of November 2009!
Location: Kastelse Kayak Klub, Houtum (at the water mill).
Info: www.pompoenregatta.be

pumpkin carrier cycle tour
During the month October you can take a cycling tour with a carrier cycle alongside the pumpkin breeders of Kasterlee. Recommendable! You can make reservations at the tourist information centre