Future of Keene Pumpkin Festival in Doubt

City Council committee rejects permit request for it this year

The future of the Keene Pumpkin Festival, which was riddled by riots last year, is in jeopardy, after a City Council committee vote on Wednesday night.

The committee unanimously rejected a permit request for this year's festival in New Hampshire.

More than 100 people were arrested after parties got out of hand Oct. 18, 2014, near the festival. Police used tear gas and pepper balls to control crowds.

At least 30 people were injured.

The event each year tries to set a record for the number of lit jack-o-lanterns.

The permit request now heads to the full City Council for a vote on Thursday night.

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