Giant Pumpkins and Watermelons Weighed at State Fair
The N.C. State Fair hosted its annual weigh-in competition for massive produce on October 13.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Fairs and Festivals
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The N.C. State Fair held its giant pumpkin and watermelon weigh-in competitions in Raleigh. Top entries are now set to be displayed at the Agri Supply Expo Center.
Why it matters
The competition is sanctioned by the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, which promotes the cultivation of record-breaking produce. Winning entries earn cash prizes for growers who successfully nurture these massive vegetables.
The top pumpkin winner weighed 2,123 pounds, while the first-place watermelon tipped the scales at 281.6 pounds. Winners receive cash prizes ranging from $1.50 to $3 per pound for pumpkins and $3 to $6 per pound for watermelons.
The players
Albert Rodebaugh
He secured first place in the pumpkin competition with a 2,123-pound entry.
Todd Dawson
He placed first in the watermelon competition with a weight of 281.6 pounds.
Great Pumpkin Commonwealth
This organization sanctions the competition and promotes the science and hobby of growing giant vegetables.
N.C. State Fair
This annual event in Raleigh hosts agricultural competitions and exhibitions.
The details
Growers from multiple states competed for top honors in the weigh-in event held on the fairgrounds. The winning produce will be on public display at the Agri Supply Expo Center throughout the duration of the fair.
Timeline
The pumpkin and watermelon weigh-ins occurred on October 13, 2026.
The N.C. State Fair runs from October 15 to October 25, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The fair's weigh-in event follows a standardized pattern set by the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth for competitive giant vegetable growing. This organization governs the global standard for competitive vegetable cultivation, influencing how local events manage records and competition brackets.
Attendees can view the award-winning pumpkin and watermelon entries at the Agri Supply Expo Center in Raleigh. The exhibit is available to the public throughout the N.C. State Fair operating window.
The takeaway
Competitive giant vegetable growing requires significant time and specialized agricultural techniques to achieve massive weight results. Enthusiasts interested in entering future competitions should review official organization guidelines for growing seasons.
Further reading
For more seasonal event updates, visit the Fairs and Festivals section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by JoCo Report.
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