Josh Hilton Set Record With Giant Durham Fair Pumpkin
The record-breaking entry weighed 2,454.5 pounds, significantly outpacing previous competition results.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Fairs and Festivals
Josh Hilton secured a new record at the Durham Fair with a giant pumpkin weighing 2,454.5 pounds. This massive entry surpassed the previous benchmarks set by Ryan Cleveland and Larry Master last year.
Why it matters
The weigh-in competition is a long-standing tradition that highlights the competitive agricultural cultivation occurring within the local community. These record-breaking results draw significant attention to the annual fair hosted in Durham.
The winning entry weighed 2,454.5 pounds, comfortably beating the 2,181-pound and 2,074.5-pound records established during the 2025 competition.
The players
Josh Hilton
He is the grower who set the new Durham Fair record for a giant pumpkin.
Durham Fair
It is an annual agricultural and entertainment event held in Durham, Connecticut.
Ryan Cleveland
He previously held a pumpkin weight record at the fair with a 2,074.5-pound entry in 2025.
Larry Master
He previously held a pumpkin weight record at the fair with a 2,181-pound entry in 2025.
The details
Fair organizers hosted the annual weigh-in event on Tuesday evening, where the record-breaking gourd was officially measured. The event serves as the lead-up to the broader 106th annual Durham Fair held at 24 Townhouse Road.
Timeline
The giant pumpkin weigh-in competition occurred on September 22, 2026.
The 106th annual Durham Fair takes place from September 24 through September 27, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This performance continues the trend of increasing competitive weight benchmarks seen in regional agricultural fairs over the last two years. The achievement highlights the intense focus growers place on maximizing crop yield through advanced horticulture.
The public can view the record-setting pumpkin and other competition entries during the upcoming fair dates. Tickets for the 106th annual fair are required for entry to the grounds at 24 Townhouse Road.
The takeaway
Growing giant pumpkins requires precise environmental control and consistent agricultural practices throughout the season. Local participants interested in future competitions should monitor soil preparation and nutrient timing well before the annual weigh-in.
What happens next
The 106th annual Durham Fair will take place at 24 Townhouse Road from September 24 through September 27, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local events by visiting the Fairs and Festivals section.
