Today, the Morton Chamber of Commerce announced that the 45th Annual Morton Pumpkin Festival will feature a new Bag’s Tournament, sponsored by Safari Bowl, and a Pumpkin Pie Eating Competition, sponsored by Culver’s of Morton. “Each year we try to add something new for our festival goers,” said Jennifer Daly, Executive Director for the Morton Chamber of Commerce. “We think these events will be popular and fun for our family crowd.”

The new Bags Tournament will be held at Safari Bowl on Saturday, September 17th beginning at 1pm following the Pumpkin Festival Parade. A cash prize based on a % of registration fees will be awarded for the first, second, and third place winners. “Bags has become a popular and competitive sport in recent years,” said Daly. “We are anticipating drawing teams from throughout the region and state.” Bag’s Tournament Chairs are Bill Aupperle, Lance Witbracht, and Clint Cowley. Pre-registration for the Bag’s Tournament is required.

Also on Saturday, the Pumpkin Pie Eating Competition will return for the first time in over a decade at 3:15 pm on the Gold’s Gym Entertainment Stage. Elementary, Junior High and High School, and Adult divisions will compete for electronic devices including a DSi Gaming System, iPod Touch, and iPhone. A celebrity division will have a cash prize and traveling trophy. “A pumpkin pie eating competition is something that just fits with a pumpkin festival,” said Daly. “And the prizes we are able to offer should be a huge draw for participants.”

Pre-registration is required for both of these events. For more information or to register, go to www.mortonpumpkinfestival.org.