El Centro Aquatic Center to host free ‘Floating Pumpkin Patch’

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) - Families looking for a unique twist on a classic fall tradition can head to the pool this weekend.

The El Centro Aquatic Center is hosting its annual Floating Pumpkin Patch Saturday, October 10, featuring a grand Renaissance theme. The event runs from noon to 3:00 p.m., and admission is completely free for the public.

Instead of searching through a traditional field, children and families are invited to splash straight into the facility's Lazy River to scoop up a free pumpkin of their very own.

"It's unique," says Angel Rosas, Aquatics Coordinator for the city. "We see a lot of pumpkin patches, but we don't see a lot of pumpkin patches at the pool. Given that we're so popular around the county, we want to promote the idea of everybody gets a pumpkin. We have 700 pumpkins, and we want 700 kids to get a pumpkin."

Beyond the water attraction, the festivities will expand poolside to feature:

• Live music
• Local food vendors
• Pumpkin crafting and decorating stations
• Carnival games with festive prizes

While entry to the event is free, organizers note that pumpkins are strictly limited to one per person, and participants must be present at the pool to claim their gourd.

For those looking to relax, shaded poolside cabanas are available to rent. Small cabanas are priced at $15.00 per hour, while large cabanas are $25.00 per hour.

Because space is limited, families are encouraged to lock in their reservations online ahead of time.

For more information regarding the event or to book a cabana, residents can contact the El Centro Aquatic Center directly at 760-335-4550 or visit the city's official portal.