Jared Persinger Weighed Massive 2,410-Pound Pumpkin
A record-setting grower brought his latest giant pumpkin to the Operation Pumpkin and Art Festival in Hamilton.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Fairs and Festivals
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Jared Persinger showcased a 2,410-pound pumpkin at the Operation Pumpkin and Art Festival in Hamilton. The massive gourd secured its place as the second-largest pumpkin ever grown in Ohio.
Why it matters
This accomplishment reinforces Persinger's position as a dominant grower in competitive giant pumpkin circles. His top two entries now stand as the largest in the state's history.
Persinger successfully weighed a 2,410-pound pumpkin, following his 2025 state record of 2,505.5 pounds. This latest entry eclipsed the 2023 benchmark record of 2,388.5 pounds.
The players
Jared Persinger
He is an Ohio-based competitive grower known for producing record-breaking giant pumpkins.
Great Pumpkin Commonwealth
This organization establishes international standards and provides oversight for giant pumpkin weigh-off competitions.
Southern Ohio Giant Pumpkin Growers
This regional association supports local growers and coordinates sanctioned weigh-off events throughout the state.
The details
The pumpkin was verified on official scales at the festival in a weigh-off sanctioned by the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth. The event was held in partnership with the Southern Ohio Giant Pumpkin Growers.
Timeline
In 2023, Bob and Jo Liggett set a 2,388.5-pound record at the Circleville Pumpkin Show.
In 2025, Persinger set the Ohio state record of 2,505.5 pounds.
The Operation Pumpkin and Art Festival occurred from October 9-11, 2026.
The festival concluded on October 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
Industry Dynamics
This achievement highlights the increasing intensity of competitive giant pumpkin growing within the state of Ohio. By holding both the first and second largest entries in history, Persinger is significantly raising the standard for regional agricultural competitions.
Attendees at the festival had the opportunity to view this record-caliber pumpkin in person during the three-day event. The festival also featured 100 artisan craft vendors for the public to browse.
The takeaway
Competitive pumpkin growing requires precision agriculture and careful environmental management to achieve such extreme weights. Enthusiasts can improve their own gardening results by researching the soil and nutrient specifications favored by high-level growers.
Further reading
For more seasonal events in the region, visit the Fairs and Festivals section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Scioto Post.
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