The Great Pumpkin Race

Join us for the 28th Anniversary of the Great Pumpkin Race!

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
• Location: Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, 2950 Whipple Ave NW, Canton, OH 44708
• Facilities: Inside holding areas and restroom facilities available
• Accessibility: Wheelchairs, strollers, and dogs welcome

Race Format

• In-Person Race: No virtual option available at this time
• Activities: Pumpkin cart racing, pumpkin decorating, Guess the Weight of the Giant Pumpkin
• Weekend Fun: Participate in the Haunted Forest Marathon on Oct. 25 to earn a 9 LIVES CHALLENGE MEDAL!
• Packet Pickup: Friday, October 30 at 4:00-6:30 PM and Saturday, October 31 starting at 7:00 AM

Race Schedule

• 100 Yard Lil' Pumpkin Dash: Begins at 8:15 AM, untimed event
• 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk: Begins at 9:00 AM, untimed event
• 4 Mile Run/Walk: Begins at 9:00 AM, timed event qualifying for the Challenger Series
• Finisher Medals: Awarded for 100 Yard Dash and 1 Mile Fun Run

Awards

• Top Finishers: Awards for top 3 male and female finishers
• Age Group Categories: Awards for age groups 1-12, 13-15, 16-18, and more
• Largest Team Prize: Award for the top team with the most registrants
• Event Categories: Includes Lil Pumpkin Dash, 1 Miler Fun Run/Walk, and 4 Miler

T-Shirt Information

• Long-Sleeve Tee: Provided for all registrants
• No Shirt Option: Available for $8 up to Race Day
• Shirt Only Option: Available until 10/3/25 for supporters
• Registration: Ensure you select the desired option during checkout

Special Olympians

• Encouragement: All with developmental disabilities are welcome
• Special Pricing: Available for Special Olympians to register
• Caregivers: Can walk along free of charge, without a race number, shirt, or medal
• Registration Inclusion: Ensure to fill out necessary details to register

Cause/Donation

• Fundraising History: Thousands raised since 1998 for Special Olympic athletes
• Local Impact: More than 500 individuals participate in Stark County Special Olympics
• Programs Include: Basketball, flag football, power lifting, and more
• 501c3 Organization: Proceeds remain local to support athletes in our community

More Information

For additional details, visit the race page: Great Pumpkin Race.