2026 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Photo courtesy of City of Tualatin.

Forget pumpkin carving. In Tualatin, they turn giant pumpkins into boats and race them across a lake.

The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta returns October 17-18, 2026, with two days of oversized pumpkins, friendly competition and fall festivities. The main event features costumed paddlers navigating hollowed-out pumpkins across the Lake of the Commons, while spectators cheer from the shore.

Best of all, the pumpkin races and festival are free to attend.

Since 2004, this quirky tradition has grown from a small gathering of giant vegetable growers into a nationally recognized fall festival drawing thousands of visitors each year.

Here’s what to expect at the 2026 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta.

2026 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

The 2026 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta takes place Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, in Tualatin, about 30 minutes southwest of Portland.

The weekend includes a giant pumpkin weigh-off, a community 5K and the main attraction: pumpkin boat races.

Pumpkin Regatta Festival

Sunday, October 18, 2026 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The main festival takes over the Lake of the Commons on Sunday, with pumpkin races scheduled for noon and 2 p.m.

The boats are real giant pumpkins grown by members of the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers. Some weigh more than 1,000 pounds before they’re hollowed out and transformed into surprisingly seaworthy vessels.

Then comes the fun part: costumed paddlers climb inside and attempt to steer their pumpkins across the lake.

The races feature giant pumpkin growers, sponsors and other participants competing in a series of challenges. With round pumpkins that aren’t exactly designed for speed or steering, getting across the water is an accomplishment in itself.

You don’t need to race to enjoy the festivities. The free family-friendly festival also features:

• Pumpkin bowling and pumpkin golf.
• Live entertainment.
• Food and drink vendors.
• Activities for kids and families.
• Local vendors and festival booths.

Location: Lake of the Commons, 8325 SW Nyberg St., Tualatin, OR.

Admission: Free. Food and merchandise are available for purchase.

Pumpkins and Pints

Saturday, October 17, 2026 | Noon-5 p.m.

The festivities begin Saturday with Pumpkins and Pints at Stickmen Brewing Company in Tualatin.

This free event features the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers’ annual Terminator Weigh-Off, where growers bring their biggest pumpkins and other enormous vegetables to compete for cash prizes.

There’s also the New Seasons Market Giant Tomato Weigh-Off, giving some seriously oversized tomatoes their moment in the spotlight.

While you watch the weigh-ins, enjoy wood-fired pizza and craft beer available for purchase at Stickmen Brewing.

Location: Stickmen Brewing Company, 19475 SW 118th Ave., Tualatin, OR.

Admission: Free.

5K Regatta Run/Walk

Sunday, October 18, 2026

Want to get moving before the pumpkin races? The Tualatin Rotary Club also hosts the 5K Regatta Run/Walk at Tualatin Community Park.

The community run is part of the regatta weekend festivities. Visit the event website for registration details, start times and any participation fees.

Location: Tualatin Community Park, 8513 SW Tualatin Rd., Tualatin, OR.

Plan Your Visit

The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta is one of the more unusual ways to celebrate fall near Portland, and you can enjoy the main event without spending a dime.

Arrive before the noon or 2 p.m. races to find a good viewing spot along the lake. With thousands of visitors expected, it’s worth checking parking and transportation information before heading out.

For the latest schedules, parking details and event updates, visit the City of Tualatin’s West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta website.

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