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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 29, 2023
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov

Powhatan State Park to host Inaugural Pawpaw Festival
Experience the nation's largest fruit

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Pawpaw fruit and seeds)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Pawpaw tree with fruit)

RICHMOND – Powhatan State Park presents a new event this year, the Pawpaw Festival. In honor of its 10th anniversary, the park will be hosting the inaugural Pawpaw Festival along with a 10-mile race the following weekend.

The Pawpaw Festival will be held on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at multiple locations throughout the park. Guests will be able to hear acoustic music performances, partake in ranger-led programs and experience animal presentations.

Pawpaws are the largest edible fruit tree in North America and are enjoyed by both animals and humans. Many species of wildlife also love pawpaws, such as the beautiful Zebra Swallowtail Butterfly, whose caterpillars eat the foliage of the tree.

“We are excited to debut this event and highlight this wonderful fruit that grows right here on trees in our park,” said Powhatan State Park Manager Amelia Hulth. “We hope to spread more awareness about the pawpaws, the species they attract and educate guests about where these trees can be found in Virginia. We also rely on the vendors to enhance the event with their expertise on various topics.”

Powhatan State Park will host a 10th Anniversary 10-Miler race the following weekend, on September 23. This race is part of the Adventure Series and participants must register here by September 1.

“This 10-mile race features a mix of terrain, and participants will run the exterior trails of the park,” said Virginia State Park Promotions Manager Steve Boyd. “Celebrate the park’s anniversary and experience the beautiful scenery in this unique race series.”

For more information about these events reach out to Amelia Hulth by email at amelia.hulth@dcr.virginia.gov.

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