Pumpkin Regattas

Sometimes you don't know you've always needed to do something till you see it. Pumpkin regattas, or pumpkin boating, is a real thing that I need to do. There are pumpkin races across the U.S. and in Canada and Europe too. I have so many questions. Where do you get your giant pumpkin? How do you clean it out? Is there a giant pumpkin seed bake-off afterwards? Do you ever want to smell pumpkin again?  I guess I won't know the answers till I try it.

Here are a few pumpkin regattas to consider.

Damariscotta, Maine (source: NYPost.com)

Damariscotta, Maine Pumpkinfest & Regatta
This is one of the largest regattas and includes over a week of pumpkin-themed events. The event actually starts in May with a giant pumpkin seedling giveaway because you really need to grow your own giant pumpkin. There is a pumpkin deployment parade of sorts where the giant pumpkins are loaded onto flatbeds and driven to the waterfront because you can't put it in the back of your Mini Cooper after all. You can also take part in a costume parade, pumpkin derby race, pumpkin drop, and pumpkin pie eating contest. This is good family fun that takes place October 3-12.

Tualatin, Oregon (source: Portland Tribune)

Tualatin, Oregon West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta
This regatta is a one day event on October 17. It's a jam packed day with live music, comedy, arts and crafts, and food. There will also be a 5K road race.

Stillwater, Minnesota (source: Arizona  Daily Star)

Stillwater, Minnesota Harvest Fest
This pumpkin fest is a weekend event on October 10-11. Besides the regatta you can experience a parade, music, chili cook-off, and micro brew tastings. Off course, there is the obligatory pumpkin drop too.

Salt Lake City, Utah (source: Mountain Valley Seed Co.)

Salt Lake City, Utah Ginormous Pumpkin Regatta
The regatta is just one of several events that the Utah Giant Pumpkin Growers association hosts in October. The race is scheduled for October 17. There is also a weigh-off for the largest pumpkin and a pumpkin drop.

This ends the Bewitching Travel ideas for Halloween this year. Next week, we'll continue the countdown to Halloween with some party ideas.