GULF SHORES, Ala. — The Harvest – A Festival of Gifts is pleased to announce that a pumpkin decorating contest is part of this year’s event.

Individuals, businesses, school classes, and church groups are encouraged to participate. Judged categories will include: “most creative,” “best of show,” and “gotta love it.” The contest is open to all ages and skill levels.

Pumpkin entry is free of charge and cash prizes will be awarded to the winner of each category. Participants are encouraged to be creative in their decorations but no carving is allowed. Some ideas include turning a pumpkin into an animal, storybook character, movie character, or object. Decorated pumpkin participants are asked to deliver pumpkins to the festival by 9:30 a.m. to be eligible for judging.

The fourth annual Harvest Festival will be Nov. 3 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the south campus of Gulf Shores United Methodist Church (Winn Dixie of Gulf Shores Shopping Center). The platinum sponsor of this year’s festival is Precision Imaging.

The decorated pumpkin contest is being sponsored by Household Pest Control.

The festival will showcase original works by more than 35 artists and crafters, offer holiday gifts, a silent auction, a sweet shop, a kid’s corner featuring free Eddie Boy’s ice cream, Jay Everett the Hula Hoop Guy, and free holiday photos by Michelle White Originals. Admission is free.

The first 200 shoppers will receive a free shopping bag donated by Josh Wild State Farm. Winn Dixie of Gulf Shores will be outside grilling hot dog lunches and ribs to go.

All proceeds will benefit the participating local artists and Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Mother’s Day Out and Preschool ministry.

For more information regarding the Decorated Pumpkin Contest call 251-747-6750 or email theharvestfestival@yahoo.com. Detailed Harvest Festival information can be found at www.gulfshoresumc.org and www.facebook.com /TheHarvestFestival.