Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin beer, pumpkin spice oil changes (we really hope that last one is a joke). In a world that is filled with pumpkin as soon as the weather forecast hints at a chilly evening, it can be difficult to find an authentic pumpkin experience. Lucky for us, there is an entire festival dedicated to pumpkins only 20 miles away in Damariscotta, Maine. What started as two pumpkinboats racing each other in 2007 has grown into the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta.
What makes this festival “authentic?”
Planning for the festival starts in the spring each year when third grade students fill 600 pots with soil and amendments for the seeds. From there, more than 400 volunteers attend “Seedling Sunday” to get their free pumpkin plants. Volunteers follow detail instructions, read a monthly newsletter with tips and tricks, and attend horticultural presentations in order to grow Atlantic Giant Pumpkins. Once October rolls around, the pumpkins are weighed under the rules and sanctions of the Giant Pumpkin Commonwealth (GPC). Some of these pumpkins weigh 1,400 pounds!
If that is not enough to convince you of its authenticity, perhaps its fame will impress you. The festival has been named the Best Fall Festival in Maine by Travel and Leisure magazine. It has also been featured on numerous television channels and shows including “CBS News – Sunday Morning,” “The Chew” on ABC, the Discovery Channel, the Travel Channel, and New York One. Word of the festival has spread overseas on German Public Radio, the BBC’s “Global Guide,” and Deutsche Well.
When is the festival?
The Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta is always held over Columbus Day weekend. This year, those dates are October 7-9, 2022.
How many people attend the festival?
The Pumpkinfest and Regatta attracts close to 15,000 people each year.
What events happen at the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta?
- Artists at Work: On Friday, visitors can watch artists carve and paint giant pumpkins into incredible works of art. These artists have to work quickly because everything must be complete before the parade on Saturday. Don’t confuse swift work with poor work. The artists put a lot of thought and skill into creative art that will only last a short while. Alongside pumpkin art, you will see artists painting hay bales. Over the years pumpkins have been transformed into aliens and monsters and witches. Some become eclectic and beautiful designs. Once the art is complete, the pumpkins remain on display throughout the festival. Wander up and down Main Street to find your favorite.
- Giant Pumpkin Parade: Secure your spot for the Saturday afternoon parade. The highlight of the parade is the winning pumpkin. That is right, the largest fruit in the state gets to be the guest of honor for the parade festivities. The parade is also filled with firetrucks, dancers, and lots of costumes and community spirit.
- Regatta: Some people race sailboats. Some people race remote control boats. The people in Damariscotta race in hollowed out pumpkins. Volunteers brave the Damariscotta Harbor on Sunday in 400-700 pound hallowed out pumpkins. Some of the volunteers fearlessly paddle using only their own arm strength. Others attach motors to their gigantic orange fruit boats. This event is so popular that it is live-streamed into the local theater so more people can watch the fun.
- Street Performers: The young, the young-at-heart, and the old who do not realize how young they still are, are all entertained by various street performers on Saturday and Sunday. Bring your dancing shoes. All performances are held in the Theater Street lot.
- Not sure where to start? Use the handy interactive map.
Can I get more information about the pumpkins?
Each decorated pumpkin will have a placard with information about the grower that made the pumpkin possible, the business that provided sponsorship, and the artist who shared their creativity. A pumpkin guide will be available online and in printed form at local establishments once festival weekend is here.
Is there parking for the festival?
Yes. There are three locations that are offering parking and shuttle service to the festival. Visitors can park at Lincoln Academy (81 Academy Hill), Great Salt Bay School (59 Main Street), or the Damariscotta Municipal Lot. The parking locations ask for a donation of $1 or more. You cannot find a better deal.
Does Maine have other pumpkin festivities?
The Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta is part of the Maine Pumpkin Trail. The trail boasts events planned by four partners: Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta, Visit Freeport Maine, the Maine Maritime Museum, and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.
