You've heard of autumn festivals celebrating apples, pumpkins and other goodies--but how about a pickle festival? Winchester, New Hampshire holds one every year, and it's great fun.

Up and down the street of this small town, you'll see people selling pickles of all kinds--sweet, sour, dill and garlic.

Crafts and food booths, kids' activities and games, a cucumber sculpture contest and a parade round out the event.

We had a wonderful time here, met many interesting people and picked up lots of recipes and tips for growing better pickles. It's a family-oriented event; no alcohol allowed.

Winchester is in southwest New Hampshire where State Highways 10 and 119 meet, 20 miles south of Keene. The festival is held in September, but dates vary; in 2003, it's slated for Sept. 27.

For more information, call Jon Baldvins at 1-603/ 239-6802.