BARNESVILLE, Ohio — The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival is gearing up for its 61st annual celebration, and this year, the grower of the famed “King Pumpkin” will receive a bigger reward than ever before.
Festival organizers announced that the grower of the winning pumpkin will earn $2 per pound of the pumpkin’s final weight, a notable increase from previous years. Last year’s King Pumpkin weighed more than 2,000 pounds.
The festival, a staple of Barnesville’s fall traditions, features a range of activities including pumpkin contests, live entertainment, craft vendors and family-friendly events. The “King Pumpkin” contest, however, remains the marquee event, attracting growers from across the region. The 2025 weigh-off will be held on Wednesday, September 24 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Organizers say the increased prize is intended to encourage even larger entries this year, promising an exciting competition for attendees and competitors alike.
The 61st Barnesville Pumpkin Festival will take place Thursday, September 25 to Sunday, September 28 centered on 113 Main Street in town. Visit the official website for details.
