03/27/2026
Time to Grow So We Can Row!
Windsor Pumpkin Regatta & Build Your Own Boat Race
As Spring springs into action, it’s time to start dreaming big… and growing even bigger! Around here, that means one thing: getting ready to grow it so we can row it—aka crafting the ultimate PVC (Personal Vegetable Craft).
We’re absolutely gourd-geous-ly excited to announce that “Moby Dill” has joined the team as our mascot! Moby and crew are already on the hunt for the most smashing pumpkins for this year’s Windsor Pumpkin Regatta, now set to make waves on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Why the date change? Well, it just made gourd sense with the Great Howard Dill Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off taking place on Saturday, October 3. So, mark your calendars for a full weekend of pumpkin-packed fun.
Interested in being part of this un-be-leaf-able Windsor Pumpkin Regatta & Build Your Own Boat Race as a vendor or volunteer? We’d love to hear from you!
For those brave (and slightly squash-buckling) paddlers ready to take the plunge, here’s what you’ll need: 1. A Pumpkin boat 2. A paddle 3. A life jacket
Finding the perfect giant gourd—pumpkin or squash—can be a bit of a vine challenge, but don’t worry, our Society is already seeding success by sourcing giants and connecting with growers who are happy to lend a stem.
Feeling creative? Our Build Your Own PVC category is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild! As long as your pumpkin floats your boat, you’re in. Think pumpkin-powered catamarans, squash squads, and anything else you can dream up.
This is a family-friendly event with something for everyone! Enjoy vendors, music, and waterfront fun. All are welcome to join the Parade of Pumpkin Paddlers before the Regatta—applications will be rolling out shortly.
We’re also committed to making this event accessible, with dedicated parking and washroom facilities on-site.
And don’t forget—late September brings the return of our Pumpkin Booster program! Local businesses can get into the spirit by decorating their windows with pumpkins, helping set the stage for a full month of festive, fall fun across West Hants—more information to come.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook for updates—you won’t want to miss a single gourd-tastic moment!
Shannon Murphy, ChairFollow Us On Facebook
[email protected]
And now for the “Jack-be-little” fine print…
The Windsor Pumpkin Regatta & Build Your Own Boat Race Society has put out the call to pumpkin growers across the Annapolis Valley, asking them to plant an extra seed (or two!) to help keep our fleet afloat.
The “just-right” pumpkin boat tips the scales at 500–700 pounds. As pumpkins keep growing and growing into true Atlantic Giants, those perfectly paddlable “baby” giants are becoming a rarity.
First Come, First Gourd
All personal vegetable craft gourds must be reserved through the Society. Availability will depend entirely on the growing season and the number of pumpkins (or squash) produced and secured for the event.
While the event is supported by the Dill Family Farm, they will NOT be accepting individual orders for giant pumpkins. Any additional large gourds from the Dill farm will be allocated directly to the Windsor Pumpkin Regatta & Build Your Own Boat Race Society.
As the regatta rebuilds, this year we’re hoping to harvest about 12 pumpkins for the regatta—so don’t let your chance get squashed!
If being a pumpkin paddler is on your gourd list, email and book your boat today. Want to seed your spot with certainty? Consider becoming a festival sponsor.
And remember… if you’ve got the space and the patience, you can always grow your own and bring it to the starting line.
Shannon Murphy, Chair
[email protected]
