River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival

Celebrating Giant Pumpkins and Their Growers!

Schedule of Events:

Pumpkin Weigh-Off:

Giant pumpkins, vegetables and fruits will be weighed throughout the festival (7AM - 2PM). Best time to view the pumpkins is between 10AM - Noon.

The Great Pumpkin Races:

A race for every age! Day of registration/packet pick-up begins at 8:30am.

9AM - The Great Pumpkin 5K Run/Walk (9yrs old+)
Approx. 10:15AM - Lil Pumpkin 1/2 Mile Run (9-12 yrs old)
Approx. 10:30AM - Lil Pumpkin 1/4 Mile Run (5-8 yrs old)
Approx. 10:45AM - Tiny Tot 75 Yard Pumpkin Trot (1-4 yrs old)

Register Here

Pumpkin Dessert Contest:

Do you have what it takes to make the best pumpkin dessert in the Chippewa Valley? Anyone can enter the contest as long as you pre-register.

Register Here

Artist Market:

Enjoy browsing the numerous artist booths! The market will be open from 8:30AM - 2PM and will be located on the small lit plaza along Front Porch Place.

Pet Costume Contest:

Let’s not forget about our forever friends! Any pet can enter the contest! Registration will be day of contest starting at 10:30AM.

Scarecrow Contest:

New for 2024! Check back soon for details!

Apple Slingshot:

Brought to you by Mathnasium & Mcilquham Orchard and Strawberries! Test your accuracy skills as you launch apples from the overlook of River Prairie Pond, located near the Veteran's Tribute Plaza. Participants will be challenged to use the apple slingshot to hit a floating target in River Prairie Pond. Those who hit the target will be entered into a prize drawing. Cost is 5 apples for $5 and will be available from 10AM - 2PM or while supplies last. Fun for the entire family!

Rubber Ducky Race:

Will your duck be the fastest of them all? Ducks can be purchased starting at 9AM with the race being at 12:30PM!

Kid Pumpkin Decorating:

Kids can come decorate a pumpkin while supplies lasts! Decorating will begin at 11:30AM.

Ginormous Pumpkin Drop:

Brought to you by Market & Johnson & Festival Foods! A Ginormous pumpkin filled with candy will be dropped out of mid air! The pumpkin drop will be taking place at 3PM near the big American Flag near River Prairie Pavilion C (1658 Bluestem Blvd).