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
• Accessibility: Our race headquarters offers inside holding areas and restroom facilities.
• Family Friendly: Wheelchairs, strollers, and dogs are welcome.

Race Format

• In-Person Race: At this time we do not offer a virtual race option.
• Weekend Fun: We are partnering with Run To You Racing for the Haunted Forest Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 25.
• Challenge Medal: Complete the Great Pumpkin 4 Miler AND any Haunted Forest distance to earn a special 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: Ages 7 & Under, begins at 8:15 AM. This is an untimed event!
• 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk: Begins at 9:00 AM. This is an untimed event and not part of the Challenge Series!
• 4 Mile Run/Walk: Also begins at 9:00 AM. This is a timed event and qualifies for the Challenger Series.
• Finisher Medals: Given for the 100 Yard and 1 Mile finishers.

Awards

• Top Finishers: Awards for top 3 male and female finishers.
• Age Groups: Awards for top 3 finishers in various age groups including 1-12, 13-15, 16-18, etc.
• Largest Team: Prizes for the team with the most registrants across events.

Items for Participants

• Long-Sleeve Tee: Provided for all registrants. Discount available for a No Shirt option.
• Shirt Options: Shirt only option available until 10/3/25.
• Special Olympians: Encouraged to register at discounted pricing. Buddies or caregivers can walk along at no cost.

Cause and Donations

• Support for Athletes: Proceeds support Special Olympic athletes in Stark County.
• Programs Offered: Includes basketball, flag football, power lifting, and more.
• Locally Focused: All funds raised stay local to support local athletes.
• Donation Process: Donations can be made through the registration process.

More Information

For additional details, please visit the Great Pumpkin Race official site.