Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

The Great Race

Row, row, row your ... pumpkin? You better believe it. The largest pumpkins in the patch get hollowed out and transported to the lake (via forklift) for an unusual boating competition at Sunday’s second annual Giant Pumpkin Regatta and Festival. Solo rowers attempt to maneuver the jumbo jack-o’-lanterns like kayaks in this gourd-off based on size and speed. Last year’s inaugural regatta snagged national attention when Seth Meyers of “Saturday Night Live” spoofed it on “Weekend Update Thursday,” and Sports Illustrated included the veggie race in its list of “Most Ridiculous Competitions.” But the fun is for a good cause; proceeds benefit youth leadership program PILOT. This year’s spectators can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to join the heat — or watch from the sidelines, where they have a choice of pie-eating and pet-costume contests, pumpkin decorating and carving demos. On your mark, get set, gourd!