What is this Race?
What is the race format?
What is the World Famous Pumpkin Race?
A fun-spirited festival like no other! The highlight of the Pumpkin Race is a unique side-by-side single elimination race featuring handcrafted, decorated Pumpkin RaceCars in a funky, hilarious, suspenseful, and dramatic display of American ingenuity. Excitement builds as Pumpkin RaceCar teams battle head-to-head for the coveted Pumpkin Race Championship Trophy. We also award other prizes for Best Decoration, Most Innovative Design, and Best Crash.
What are Pumpkin RaceCars?
Pumpkin RaceCars are made to conform (more or less) to the Official World Famous Pumpkin Race Rules. The Official Rules state in part that a Pumpkin RaceCar must be made from a carved pumpkin with two independent axels and wheels attached. Pumpkin RaceCars come in all different shapes, sizes and speeds. Some are elaborately decorated and ready to race. Others appear as if they can't make it down the race track at all. A well-crafted Pumpkin RaceCar can easily cross the finish line first, or it can catch an unfortunate break and come up short. One never knows. There are always a few mighty Pumpkin RaceCar underdogs who somehow manage to come up with a victory over a seemingly superior opponent. Despite their different appearances, all Pumpkin RaceCars (except Cheaters!) are given an equal opportunity to participate and advance toward victory.
Does anyone ever cheat?
In a word - Yes. However, our vigilant Race Officials make sure everyone plays by the rules - fair and square. If a Race Official determines that a Pumpkin Racecar is in violation the Official World Famous Pumpkin Race Rules it is immediately declared a cheater! The penalty for racing a cheater Pumpkin RaceCar is instant destruction by a large wooden mallet administered by the Head Race Official. It is important to note that several race entrants routinely enter "cheater" pumpkins with full knowledge that their Pumpkin RaceCar will be smashed to bits for all to see and cheer. To the best of our knowledge the Head Race Official has never smashed a person's Pumpkin RaceCar without their permission!
What is the Race Genius Booth?
The Race Genius Booth was established to help first-time attendees of all ages and abilities quickly and easily experience the thrill of building a pumpkin racer and participating in the race. Most first-time attendees do not have the ability to bring a finished pumpkin racer to the event. The Race Genius Booth contains all of the necessary tools, accessories, expert assistance (and encouragement!) to build a Pumpkin RaceCar. Stock items include wheels, axels, tools and assorted decoration options. The Race Genius Booth started out as a small table with a few pumpkins and wheels. It is now an epicenter of activity with parents helping children, friends helping friends and a host of amazed onlookers. It is now an annual tradition for Pumpkin Racers to showcase their Pumpkin RaceCars in a dazzling line-up on Pumpkin Pit Row right next to the Race Genius Booth.