Sep. 12 -- Everyone's favorite Pumpkin Mountain is coming back to St. Joseph next month, with plenty of fall fun planned for the community's annual Pumpkinfest.

This year's event will run Oct. 4, 5 and 6 at the Pony Express Museum and Patee Park. The iconic Pumpkin Mountain will be lit at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday to unofficially kick off the Halloween season.

The costume parade begins 11 a.m. Saturday, and prizes will be handed out to the winner of the children's costume contest. Participants should meet at 10 a.m. in the Patee Market parking lot.

Local performers will also keep the vibes high throughout the celebration, including the Phil Vandel Band, Will Stuck storyelling, BJ's magic and plenty of other talent.

Various vendors will be joining in on the fun throughout the weekend as well, including food trucks so guests can grab a bite.