🎃 Pumpkinfest —Fri Oct 9 – Mon Oct 12
People hollow out giant pumpkins, climb inside, and paddle or motor them down the Damariscotta River while thousands watch — one of Maine’s strangest and best fall traditions.
Friday, October 9 through Monday, October 12, 2026. The Regatta is Sunday, October 11, noon–2pm; the kids’ Pumpkin Derby runs that morning.
Damariscotta, ME.
Free to watch; check the official schedule for any ticketed events.
Giant hollowed-out pumpkins raced down the Damariscotta River, silly costumes, and a kids’ Pumpkin Derby.
Sunday, October 11, 2026, noon to 2pm. The kids’ Pumpkin Derby runs that morning.
Watching is free; check the official schedule for any ticketed events.
Watch giant hollowed pumpkins race down the river, see people in costume, and take part in the Pumpkin Derby.
📅 Planning the rest of the weekend? See what else is on in our family events calendar.
📷 Photo via mainepumpkinfest.com.