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Sonoma Family Life Magazine

How Far Can You Spit a Pumpkin Seed?

Tarantulas have an ewww factor that, for kids, can make them as compelling as they are repulsive. Little ones curious about the hairy arachnid can check one out at the Tolay Fall Festval, where all kinds of slithering critters and multi-legged insects will be on display. For those who aren’t into bugs, there will be demos of archery, astronomy, and nature photography as well as Alaguali cultural activities, such as basketry, flint knapping, and acorn processing. For some straight up fall fun, children can meander around a pumpkin patch, hop on a hayride, or compete in the World Record Pumpkin Seed Spitting Contest. The festival will be held on October 12–13 and 19–20 at Tolay Lake Regional Park in Petaluma. Admission is $3­–$5; parking is $7. Activities inside the festival grounds are free.