2024 Scarecrow Festival Pumpkin Derby
Event at Dixon’s Annual Scarecrow Festival on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024
Check in: Noon
Race Time: 1 p.m.
Hennepin Ave. between First and Second Street
Pumpkin race “cars” will battle for fastest racer down Hennepin Ave. Cash prizes for “Grand Champion” & “Best In Show” will be awarded to winners in the Youth w/ Family (5 & under), Kids (6-12), Teen (13-17), Adult (18+) & Business/Organization categories.
- Racers must be assembled using a single, whole, real pumpkin. While it may be hollowed out, it must retain its pumpkin shape. A bigger or heavier pumpkin does not necessarily make it faster.
- Racers can be created using a prefabricated chassis of any kind (i.e., skateboard, stroller, toy truck, etc.) OR by inserting two independent axles through the pumpkin with wheels attached to the axles. Use wheels from an old lawn mower or gather pine derby car components. Kits are available to order online, but your imagination is FREE and creative engineering is encouraged!
- NO MOTORS, EXPLOSIVES or PYROTECHNICS!
- No pushing or “helping” your Racer. Racers must be placed at the starting line and GRAVITY will do the rest. Be sure your racer has enough ground clearance for your wheels to spin freely.
- The best way to build a fast Racer is to make sure the axles are parallel so your racer will roll straight down the track. Many racers are eliminated because their racer veers into the side wall before crossing the finishing line. Check to ensure your wheels are parallel and spin freely.
- Participants under 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian present during the contest.
- Racers must be under 30″ in diameter.