The Damariscotta Pumpkinfest has been one of the Boothbay Harbor region’s most anticipated fall celebrations since 2007. It is an educational and family-friendly experience that has quickly become a favorite of adults and children alike. For those seeking a fun and memorable way to savor autumn in Maine, this event is a great option!
For more information about exciting festivities like the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest, download our complimentary Boothbay Harbor Vacation Guide! This document is a hand-picked list of great local dining, shopping, outdoor activity recommendations. Get a copy today and start planning that fall getaway!
About the Festival
The Damariscotta Pumpkinfest is a high-spirited event that educates the public about agricultural science. Each year, people flock to the town of Damariscotta, ME, on
Columbus Day weekend to honor fall’s arrival. More than anything else, though, the festival is a celebration of the pumpkin’s versatility! Not only does this fun-filled
weekend give the community an economic boost, but it provides a chance for locals and visitors to come together and have a wonderful time.
How to Welcome Fall at the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest
1. Watch the Giant Pumpkin Parade
Come one, come all! The Queen of Pumpkins invites visitors from all over to observe the Giant Pumpkin Parade that will sweep the streets of Downtown Damariscotta. This event is a favorite for families; it gives kids a chance to become the “squashbuckler,” or Pumpkin Queen’s loyal subject. This Pumpkinfest mainstay takes place on Saturday, October 7th, 2017 at 2:15 p.m and is free to attend.
2. Enjoy Airborne Pumpkins
Kick off the fall season by watching massive Atlantic pumpkins plummet over 180 feet and smash into targets below! On Sunday, October 8th from 1 to 4 p.m., the free-to-attend Damariscotta Pumpkinfest pumpkin drop will thrill onlookers and support local recycling efforts. After a crane carries them nearly 200 feet in the air, pumpkins fall onto a variety of interesting targets like junked police cars. Afterward, the pieces from the smashed pumpkins are collected and used to feed animals at local farms.
Another free event at the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest that features flying pumpkins is the giant catapult demonstration. On Sunday, October 8th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., watch as a two-person team shoots pumpkins into the horizon from their homemade catapult. Because of these two events, fall will certainly be in the air!
3. Take Part in Pumpkin Racing
Don’t miss the Pumpkin Boat Regatta on Damariscotta Harbor! This is one of the festival’s most popular events, and for good reason. Where else can one witness people navigating the waters of Maine in hand-carved, giant pumpkin boats? On Monday, October 9th at noon, choose to watch the paddleboat division, motorboat division, pumpkin boat polo, or all three! The winning team wins the Golden Gourd trophy. For the best view of this giant pumpkin boat race, be sure to find a spot along the harbor.
In addition to pumpkin boats, expect to see pumpkin cars! Unlike many of the 2017 Damariscotta Pumpkinfest’s events, the Pumpkin Derby utilizes small pumpkins. These petite gourds are hand-decorated with wheels and paint, then rolled down a track. Kids love this event! The racer whose derby pumpkin reaches the finish line first wins a prize! Treats are also given out for the scariest, funniest, and most creative racers. This free event takes place on Sunday, October 8th at 8:30 a.m.
Take Full Advantage of Fall at Linekin Bay Resort
In need of a place to stay for the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest? Linekin Bay Resort is just a short drive from the town of Damariscotta! Our cozy and rustic resort is set apart from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area, creating a tranquil atmosphere for our guests without sacrificing convenience to their favorite local attractions. During an autumn stay here, guests enjoy lodging in historic cabins, delicious meals at The Deck Bar & Grill, and relaxation right on the water! The fall getaway of a lifetime awaits at Linekin Bay Resort.
Book a waterfront cabin or lodge with us today! All of our accommodations feature breathtaking views and unique amenities you won’t find at any other hotel in the area. Come and experience fall at Linekin Bay Resort and see what we mean!
We look forward to welcoming you and the harvest season in Boothbay Harbor soon!