Giant Pumpkin Carving and Display
Calling All Growers
Operation Pumpkin is proud to continue one of our most iconic traditions—celebrating the size, skill and dedication behind giant pumpkin growing.
In 2026, we’re excited to partner with the Southern Ohio Giant Pumpkin Growers (SOPG), who will officially host and facilitate our Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off. Known for their expertise and passion for competitive growing, SOPG brings a new level of excitement and professionalism to this long-standing festival favorite.
Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off
Friday, October 9 @ 5 p.m.
Watch as massive pumpkins—some weighing hundreds (or even thousands!) of pounds—are carefully lifted, weighed and judged. This is one of the most anticipated moments of the festival and a must-see experience for all ages.
With significant prize money on the line, growers from across the region bring their very best to compete for top honors.
Fruit & Vegetable Weigh-Off
Saturday, October 10 @ 10 a.m.
We’re bringing back even more competition and fun with the return of the Fruit & Vegetable Weigh-Off—now hosted by SOPG!
This event showcases a wide variety of impressive entries beyond pumpkins, including:
- Watermelons
- Field pumpkins
- Bushel gourds
- Long gourds
- Marrow
- Tomatoes
- Sunflower heads
It’s a great opportunity to see the creativity and dedication of growers across multiple categories—and for festival guests to experience something truly unique.
About SOPG
The Southern Ohio Giant Pumpkin Growers are a passionate group of competitive growers dedicated to advancing the art and science of growing giant produce. Their involvement brings credibility, structure and an elevated experience for both participants and spectators.
Don't Miss It!
Whether you're a serious grower, a curious first-time visitor or just looking for a fun, memorable experience—these weigh-offs are a highlight of the festival.
Come early, grab a spot and see just how big things can grow!
Stay tuned for more information on the rules & regulations for both weigh-offs.
Giant Pumpkin Prize Structure
1st Place: $9,000
2nd Place: $7,000
3rd Place: $5000
4th-13th Place: $1,000
14th & 15th Place: $750
16th-20th Place: $500
Watermelon Prize Structure
1st Place: $1,200
2nd Place: $800
3rd Place: $400
4th Place: $200
5th Place: $100
6th- 10th Place: $75
Sunflower Head, Field Pumpkin, Bushel Gourd, Marrow, Long Gourd & Tomato Prize Structure
(Winners in Each Category)
1st Place: $150
2nd Place: $100
3rd Place: $75
4th Place: $50
5th Place: $25
Learn More About
Operation Pumpkin - Pumpkin and Art Festival
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