Giant Pumpkins Battle for World Record in California

California's giant pumpkin weigh-off features contenders vying for world record and $30k prize. Learn about the competition and participants.

Editorial Desk

October 12, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Half Moon Bay, United States — Giant pumpkin growers will gather in Northern California this week for the 53rd World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off, competing for the top prize and a shot at breaking the world record set last week in England.

The event, which draws over 30 participants, includes four-time champion Travis Gienger, who had to cancel last year due to a broken pumpkin. This year, he faces challenges with freezing temperatures but has grown a massive gourd that could potentially set a new record. The current world record of 2,857 pounds was established by Ian Paton from Lymington, England.

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Brandon Dawson, who won last year with a pumpkin weighing 2,346 pounds, will also compete. The winner will receive $9 per pound and an additional $30,000 if they break the world record. The festival will also feature pumpkin carver Mike Valladao and a parade through Half Moon Bay.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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Editorial Desk

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