The traditional pumpkin festival in Ludwigsburg featured sculptures and artworks made by artists from more than 450,000 pumpkins representing over 600 varieties. The festival was described as the world’s largest pumpkin festival and attracted about 200,000 visitors.

Its themes included figures and objects ranging from Super Mario to Barbie and pomegranates. The event was characterized as a form of escapism, and enthusiasm was expressed for European festival culture.