21 Apr 2017

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Want to escape the urban boundaries and experience a traditional country event?

Pumpkins at the Little River Pumpkin Festival.

Pumpkins at last year's Little River Country Bumpkin Giant Pumpkin Festival.

Then make a bee-line to Little River on Sunday for the Little River Country Bumpkin Giant Pumpkin Festival.

At the festival you will be able to feast your eyes on pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, taste some of the famous Little River Pumpkin soup, and enjoy some traditional country entertainment.

There will be races for the kids, a gumboot throwing competition and an old fashioned chocolate wheel, as well as live music and a chance to kick up your heels.

The festival is on from 11am to 3pm in the Little River Domain. The pumpkin judging will take place at 12.30pm.

Admission is by donation with all the proceeds going to the Little River School.

Junior fencing championships

New Zealand's young fencing talent is converging on Christchurch this weekend with their sights set on taking out one of the top spots in this year's National Under 15 and Under 17 New Zealand Fencing Championships.  

The championships are being held at Avonside Girls' High School between 8.30am and 5pm Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Come along and see the country's best junior fencers compete in three fencing events - the Sabre, the Epee and the Foil. Entry is free.

Buddha's Birthday Festival

The Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple is celebrating its 10th anniversary and Buddha's birthday with a festival on Saturday. There will be a vegetarian food fair, arts and craft stalls and multicultural performances. The festival is being held at the temple, at 2 Harakeke St, Riccarton, from 10am to 4pm.

Halswell Community Market

Halswell's monthly community market is on this Sunday.  Set in the award winning gardens of St John of God, Hauora Trust, the market is a great place to catch up with friends and enjoy some live entertainment. It has a variety of stalls offering plants, handmade crafts, local produce and amazing food.  The market runs from midday to 3pm.

Other events

Find out about other events that are on at Be There.