Ahoy, pumpkin friends! It’s Day 4 of Pumpkin Week! We have an exciting event to share with you today that’s sure to capture your interest. Now, get ready for some high-seas pumpkin fun because it’s regatta time! That’s right, we’re taking our beloved pumpkins to the water. Join us as we explore the world of pumpkin boat races, where creativity and buoyant pumpkins come together for a day of aquatic adventure. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or new to the concept of pumpkin regattas, there’s something fun for everyone.
Come Sail Away!
Pumpkin regattas, also known as pumpkin boat races, have become a popular fall tradition in various coastal communities. The most well-known regattas are in Maine, Oregon and Nova Scotia. However, smaller races are all around the country during the autumn season.
Let’s Go Watch
The regattas draw HUGE crowds to see these quirky races. For example, the Damariscotta, Maine Pumpkinfest & Regatta attracts tens of thousands of visitors over the course of a few days. They feature various activities and attractions in addition to the regatta. But, not surprisingly, the highlight is always the exciting pumpkin race!
Dress Up Time!
The races are FUN to watch and to show support for your favorite teams. Part of the excitement is due to the competitor’s dress in crazy and creative costumes. Sometimes, the participants even decorate the pumpkin boats in fun ways.
Help, I Can’t Steer!
Naturally, the pumpkin “boats” are not stable in the water. As a result, they tend to wobble and turn in circles. Therefore, tipping over is pretty common and can be comical to watch. The pumpkins travel slowly – and they are challenging to row in a straight line.
Behemoths
The pumpkins used for the races are giant ones, usually weighing between 400-1000+ pounds. These huge gourds are carefully chosen for their buoyancy and ability to support a paddler while floating on the water.
Fun for the Crowd
In the end, pumpkin regattas are a unique and entertaining spectacle where pumpkins are the star. These races celebrate the spirit of creativity, teamwork, and lighthearted competition. So, if you’re ever near a pumpkin regatta, don’t miss the chance to see this charming blend of silliness and adventure on the water. It’s a tradition that reminds us to embrace the fun side of life, even in the most unexpected places.
YUM!
Embracing the fun also applies to recipes, as we share our own version of a classic dump cake. This dessert is surprisingly easy and incredibly tasty. Hopefully, you and your guests will LOVE this one!
Pumpkin Crunch
Duncan Hines Moist Butter Recipe Golden Cake Mix – 1 box
1 can pure pumpkin (15 oz)
1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 tsp salt
4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup butter
Directions:
Grease a 9×13 inch pan. Mix pumpkin, milk, eggs, sugar, spice, and salt. Pour into greased pan. Spread dry cake mix on top of pumpkin mixture. Sprinkle pecans over cake mix. Melt butter and pour over the pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-55 minutes. *If your pecans are browning and your mixture is still “jiggly”, simply cover the top with aluminum foil and bake 3-5 minutes longer. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed pecans if desired.
“As autumn leaves dance on the coast, may your dreams set sail
like pumpkins in a regatta of endless possibilities.”
I hope you are enjoying pumpkin week and learning as much as we are! For tomorrow, we plan to share more inspiration, additional recipes and some fun trivia. Please join us for more pumpkin adventures ahead!
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3 Responses
This looks like a whole lot of fun to watch!
I’m so happy I found this article. Watching the pumpkin races sounds exciting. Thanks for sharing.
Looks like so much fun wow they are big pumpkins you dont see that size here in scotland lol