Paddling a Pumpkin

chicken girl

Sunday, October 19, 2025 during the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta
Lake of the Commons
8325 SW Nyberg Street, Tualatin, Oregon
Races at 12PM and 2PM.
Emcee - Mike Barrett
Safety boaters provided by Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe

HOW CAN I PADDLE A GIANT PUMPKIN?

  1. Convince your company to become a Sasquash Level sponsor and then volunteer to be the paddler! Leave a copy of the sponsor info (below) on your boss's desk then casually walk around the office in a costume while carrying a kayak paddle. Saying things like "arghhhh" and "ahoy matey" may help your cause.
  2. Sign up for the Pumpkin Paddling Quest that will be open August 1 - September 5. People will be selected and placed on the list of potential paddlers. All others will be placed on a list of alternates. What are your odds of being chosen? In 2024 133 people signed up for the lottery and 26 were chosen..
  3. Grow your own giant pumpkin and become a member of the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers. You can find tips on growing giant pumpkins here. If you are growing a giant pumpkin and would like to paddle it in the Regatta please contact Jim Sherwood at the the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers for information about how to become a member and instructions on getting your pumpkin into the water.
     

IF YOU WERE CHOSEN TO PADDLE A PUMPKIN

**Paddlers must be at least 18 years old.
**One person per pumpkin

Helpful information for paddlers:

  • Life jacket, paddle, and pumpkin will be provided.
  • Costumes are required. Please make sure that your costume is appropriate for a family event. Be aware that you will get wet and covered in pumpkin slime so plan accordingly. Wear a costume you can swim in, if necessary
  • NEW for 2025! - No inflatable costumes. No costumes that cover the head and face completely. Costumes with a separate mask are fine. If you are unsure if your costume is allowed please send the organizer a photo for confirmation.
  • Wear shoes you can step into the water in.
  • Bring a dry set of clothes and shoes for after the race.
  • Bring a towel or something to kneel on inside the pumpkin. Your legs will thank you later. :)
  • There is a chance that a pumpkin will capsize. Life jackets are provided and required but paddlers should have strong swimming skills.
  •  Arrange for a friend to hold your valuables while you are in the pumpkin. The City of Tualatin is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
  • Only paddlers are allowed in the pumpkin launch area. Tell your cheering squad they will need to find a place along the lake to watch and take photos.