Each year thousands of spectators show up to cheer on their favorite captains piloting the giant pumpkin boats.
West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta
When jack-o'-lanterns just aren't festive enough, take in this annual contest.
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John Patrick Pullen
Editor's Pick
This is a recurring event and we’re showing the details from its most recent past occurrence. We’ll update this page with future event info as soon as we get it. Please check back!
Just when you think you’ve seen everything, you realize you’ve been missing the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta. Since 2004, this cherished local event returns to the Tualatin Commons every October with a series of races. The races are exactly what they sound like: costumed competitors piloting a gaggle of gigantic gourds through a watercourse on Tualatin Commons Lake. The regatta kicks off the day before the races with a pumpkin weigh-off at the Pumpkins and Pints event at Stickmen Brewing. The following day consists of a full day of pumpkin paddlers plying the shallow lake in giant pumpkin boats.
Questions About Giant Pumpkins
What is the world’s biggest pumpkin?
Competitive giant vegetable growing has participants all over the world. And, interestingly enough, 2020 saw somewhat of a resurgence in the hobby. New records were set in many areas, such as the heaviest red cabbage at 70 pounds (32 kg) and a four foot long (1.2 m) leek. That year, the biggest pumpkin was grown in California and weighed 2350 pounds (1066 kg). However, it didn’t beat the all-time world record, weighing in at 2624 pounds (1190 kg) grown in 2016.
Can you really use a pumpkin as a boat?
Pumpkins, like apples, are buoyant. Meaning they are less dense than water and, therefore float. As a matter of fact, the world record for the longest pumpkin boat journey is held by a man in Minnesota who skippered his stupendous squash a whopping 26 miles (42km) down the Red River.
How long does it take to grow a giant pumpkin?
It can take anywhere from 140-160 days to grow a giant pumpkin, the general rule is 60 days of plant growth and 90 days of fruit growth. However, growing the biggest possible pumpkin involves getting the perfect balance of nutrients, light and fertilization. Find some tips here from a member of the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers.
On dry land, a kid’s costume contest, face painting, pumpkin decorating, games set up around the lake, pumpkin bowling and golf will keep the laughs coming at this free, family-friendly event. Located just 13 miles (21 km) southwest of downtown Portland, Tualatin is a great starting point for an autumn adventure in the Willamette Valley, complete with foliage and farm stands — but the most eye-popping sight of the day will definitely be those massive pumpkins.
Favorite Fall Events
Enjoy Autumn in Portland with plenty of things to do and see.