The markets and pumpkins in our own backyard...

Wednesday night, WPT will present an encore presentation of To Market To Market To Buy a Fat Pig at 7. The program will be followed at 8 by Lords of the Gourd: The Pursuit of Excellence.

Even though Wisconsin isn't featured in these programs, both of them fit perfectly with this time of year in the state. Curious about the ties? Read on...

In Wisconsin, this is a prime time of year to take advantage of the many markets, stands and farms that offer fresh produce. And with autumn approaching faster than we'd like, it's not too early to look toward apple and pumpkin picking opportunities, too.

In Madison, the Dane County Farmers Market continues on at the Capitol Square through the first week of November. Visit this site or this site to find other great markets and fruit and vegetable stands around the state. Apple aficionados can find their local orchards here.

And the giant gourds? Well, each year Nekoosa presents an annual Giant Pumpkin Festival. The festival draws growers from all over the state to bring their largest gourds for a weigh-in contest. The huge pumpkins are only part of the event that includes a car show, craft fair and pumpkin bake-off. To learn about the other activities (including a giant pumpkin drop from the top of a crane) visit this site. This year's festival is Oct. 6 and 7.

And for those already plotting their pumpkin-gathering trips, this site will help you out.

Finally don't forget our podcast interview with Rick Sebak. You can find it here.