Pumpkins are a most versatile squash. They can be turned into pumpkin pies, pumpkin soup and pumpkin boats. Yes, BOATS!
When fall arrives, pumpkin boat regattas are held in various locations such as Burlington, Vermont, Damariscotta, Maine, Goffstown, New Hampshire, Elk Grove, California, and Menominee, Michigan. All it takes are humongous pumpkins, a body of water and fun- loving people who believe that pumpkins are sea-worthy.
One of the biggest events is the Tualatin West Coast Pumpkin Regatta in Oregon. Sponsored by the Tualatin Parks and Recreation Department, this free event has grown into a giant spectacle with 200,000 spectators.
The massive pumpkins are supplied by the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers. The growers transport their pumpkins and carve them on site. Then they jump in the shells and start paddling. After this first heat, community members get to race the pumpkins which prefer to spin around rather than go forward.
If all this excitement isn’t enough, the festival also offers pumpkin golf, pumpkin bowling, pumpkin checkers and pumpkin tic-tac-toe.
The East Coast town of Damariscotta, Maine, is not to be outdone. The boats here can be both paddled and motorized. And for those who don’t want to get in the water, their festival includes pumpkin derby races. Gentlemen, start your pumpkins!
Well, if that isn’t just smashingly fun!
I would love to see one of these events. Menominee, Michigan it is within reach. We will have to look for the date next fall.