John Patrick Pullen

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people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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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.

John Patrick Pullen

Editor's Pick
When
Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free
Where
8325 SW Nyberg St
Tualatin, OR 97062

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.

people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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Paddling the giant pumpkins is harder than it looks, but perseverance is rewarded, with prizes going to the victors.
people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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The giant pumpkins are grown over the summer and can weigh over 2000 pounds (907 kg).
a person paddles a boat made out of a giant pumpkin with spectators watching on the shore
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The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta is one of the most unique fall festivals in Oregon.
people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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Since 2004, people from around the country gather to witness costumed characters paddling inside giant pumpkins in a series of races.
a person paddles a boat made out of a giant pumpkin with spectators watching on the shore
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Pumpkins are buoyant and will even float with a person inside.
people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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Costumed racers paddle their giant pumpkins while spectators cheer them on at the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta.
people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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Courageous seafarers race their giant pumpkins across the Lake at the Commons every year.
people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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Dressed in quirky costumes, the paddlers compete for prizes in a series of races.
people in costumes paddle boats made of giant pumpkins on a lake while spectators watch on the shore
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The competition can get fierce with racers trying to outmaneuver each other on the Lake at the Commons.

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.

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Festival, Outdoors