Free pumpkins at Milton Farmers Market Sept. 20 and 27

As residents are finalizing their Halloween costumes, it's time for all soon-to-be pirates, princesses, ghouls and goblins to select the perfect pumpkin for their holiday jack-o-lanterns.

Large pumpkins freshly delivered from Fifer Orchards will be available at the Milton Farmers Market from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 20 and 27, at the corner of Union Street and Magnolia next to the Milton Historical Society’s museum. Free parking is available on-street or in the parking lot on Magnolia Street. These pumpkins arrive thanks to the coordinated efforts of Fifer Orchards, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery and the Cannery Village Civic Association as a benefit for Casa San Francisco. To receive a free selection, bring a donation of nonperishable canned goods to the market on Union Street to help stock the shelter’s food bank.

Once pumpkins are in hand, it’s time to get creative and transform them into inventive jack-o-lanterns for the Second Annual Great Pumpkin Carve. This contest will take place from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 4, at the Milton Farmers Market Oktoberfest 2013 held at Dogfish Head Brewery in Cannery Village. Carved masterpieces should be delivered to the market grounds at DFH no later than 3:30 to be displayed for judging on three tables representing age groups of 1-13, 14-20 and 21 and up. Market patrons will receive tickets to cast votes for their favorite pumpkins as they browse and shop the 20-plus vendors. Winners will be announced at 5:30. This popular event marks the end of the 2013 season for the Milton Farmers Market and brings a change of location to Dogfish Head Brewery at 6 Village Center Drive off Chestnut Street.

Look for fresh produce, all-natural meats and poultry, wild-caught seafood, baked goods and specialty items at all Milton Farmers Markets where there are always delicious prepared foods, spirited live music and plenty of free parking.