Illustration of a fall festival scene (River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival

Celebrate the harvest season at the River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival in Altoona, WI. This annual event showcases Wisconsin's largest pumpkin weigh-off, featuring colossal pumpkins and produce. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including races for all ages, a pumpkin dessert contest, and a thrilling pumpkin drop filled with candy. Browse local art at the Artist Market and even enter your pet in the costume contest. It's a FREE, fun-filled fall celebration not to be missed!

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What to Expect

Wisconsin's largest pumpkin weigh-off and a ginormous pumpkin drop.

Event Details

Duration

All day

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

River Prairie

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Visit Eau Claire

Food & Drink

Fall flavors and food vendors available.

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families, pumpkin enthusiasts, community event lovers

Vibe

Festive, autumnal, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

River Prairie Park
Altoona, WI

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Parking: Parking is free throughout the park as well as in designated business parking lots. On-street parking in River Prairie is back-in only. There is also public off-street parking that has standard pull-in parking stalls. Please pay attention to the signage within the park that indicates parking regulations.
  • Pets: Pet-friendly (pets must be leashed and cleaned up after. Other regulations apply.)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive in the late morning or early afternoon to see the giant pumpkins at their best during the weigh-off.
  • Pre-register your pet for the costume contest to ensure their participation.
  • Bring your little ones early for the Tiny Tot Pumpkin Trot (ages 1-4) or the Lil' Pumpkin 1/4 Mile Run (ages 5-8).
  • Check the event website for registration details for the Pumpkin Dessert Contest and Pet Costume Contest.
  • Don't miss the spectacular Ginormous Pumpkin Drop for a chance to catch candy!

Special Events & Promotions

  • Wisconsin's biggest pumpkin weigh-off
  • The Great Pumpkin Races for all ages
  • Pumpkin Dessert Contest
  • Pet Costume Contest
  • Ginormous Pumpkin Drop

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities are available for kids?

Kids can enjoy the Great Pumpkin Races (Lil' Pumpkin 1/4 Mile Run and Tiny Tot Trot), pumpkin decorating, and the Ginormous Pumpkin Drop.

Can I bring my pet?

Yes, River Prairie is pet-friendly! Pets must be leashed and cleaned up after. They can also participate in the Pet Costume Contest if pre-registered.

What are the food options?

The festival features fall flavors and food vendors, with several restaurants located within River Prairie.

Is there parking available?

Yes, parking is free throughout the park and in designated business lots. On-street parking is back-in only, and there is also public off-street parking.

What is the main attraction of the festival?

The main attraction is Wisconsin's largest pumpkin weigh-off, featuring colossal pumpkins, along with the exciting Ginormous Pumpkin Drop.

Tags

pumpkin festivalfamily friendlyfall festivalhalloween festivalpumpkin patchcommunity eventpet costume paradekids gamesfood trucks

More Halloween Events Near Altoona

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Aug 28, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team