This Illinois Town Is Known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World

Let the fall activities begin.

As soon as October starts, people go crazy looking for the perfect pumpkin. If you're looking for a fun fall destination, you might want to consider visiting Morton, Illinois, because it's known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World.

Why Is Morton Called the Pumpkin Capital?

Since 1978, when the former Illinois governor officially named Morton the Pumpkin Capital of the World, people from all over have visited the small Illinois town. One of the biggest attractions is the annual Pumpkin Festival, which brings nearly 75,000 people to town.

So, why Morton?

The answer has a lot to do with pumpkins. The Nestlé/Libby's plant located in Morton has been responsible for producing a huge amount of the world's canned pumpkin. According to Mashed, the plant has produced as much as 82% of the world's canned pumpkin. So, when you pick up a can of pumpkin at the grocery store, there's a good chance it came from Morton, Illinois.

The plant first opened in the 1920s, but according to Peoria.org, it didn't begin canning pumpkins until the 1970s.

I've personally used Nestlé/Libby's canned pumpkin to make pies and my pumpkin bars, and they always turn out delicious. With Morton being so closely associated with pumpkin production and the annual festival, it's no surprise that several TV networks have visited the town over the years to share its pumpkin history and festivities with viewers.