Pumpkinfest History

Spectators enjoying the entries in the Anamosa Pumpkinfest Weigh-off

In 1989 the first Ryan Norlin GIANT Pumpkin Weigh-Off was held in Anamosa. This competition was started by Tom Norlin, uncle of Ryan, who wished to dedicate this weigh-off to his nephew who had lost his life in a boating accident.

Tom had been growing big pumpkins for 30 years of which Ryan had become a part. In 1993, Tom and other area pumpkin growers organized the Mid-West Pumpkin Growers Association, which is affiliated with an international organization, the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth. The goal of our Weigh-Off is to bring a world’s record of a 1,800 pound pumpkin to Anamosa!

The Weigh-Off generated such enthusiasm that several community leaders organized an annual Pumpkinfest. In 1994, the Weigh-Off and the Pumpkinfest committees united to bring more events and activities to the celebration. We welcome you to the Anamosa Pumpkinfest and Weigh-Off and a day full of family fun!