SAUGUS — In a disappointing turn of events for residents, Saugus’ Pumpkin Truck won’t make it to First Congregational Church Saturday morning as scheduled, thanks to delivery delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We still want to do it, it just depends on when (the truck can get here),” said Pumpkin Patch volunteer Bob Davis.
According to Davis, the delivery date has been pushed back indefinitely after Pumpkin Patch coordinator Carl Spencer received word from the company in charge of deliveries that they would be unable to make this weekend’s date due to unspecified pandemic delays.
Distance may be part of the problem, Davis said, adding that the pumpkins are actually grown and harvested on the Navajo Nation reservation in New Mexico every year before they’re loaded onto the Pumpkin Truck to make the 2,400-mile journey to Saugus.
“We’re sorry and disappointed that the truck is delayed, but as soon as we get the pumpkins, we’ll be up and running,” Spenser said. “The church truly enjoys providing the community with pumpkins and hosting this great event.”
Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes will be displayed on the church lawn until Oct. 31 and will be available for purchase every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Volunteers are still needed to help staff selling shifts, and those interested are encouraged to contact Spencer at (781) 233-9196 or to simply stop by the church to sign up.
Elyse Carmosino can be reached at [email protected].