Topsfield, MA October 9, 2026 -- A new Topsfield Fair record was set at this year’s Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In, as Woody Lancaster of Topsfield, MA brought in a massive 2,598-pound pumpkin. The entry topped a strong field of competitors and now stands as the largest pumpkin ever recorded at the Fair.
The full leaderboard featured standout results from across the region: - Giant Pumpkin 2nd Place: Larry & Shawna Masters – East Nassau – 2,220 pounds - Giant Pumpkin 3rd Place: Joe Jutras – North Scituate, RI – 2,197 pounds - Giant Pumpkin Youth Prize: Alistair Lehto – Fitchburg, MA – 1,815 pounds
The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In is a favorite tradition that highlights the hard work, skill, and patience of growers. Each pumpkin represents months of careful tending, from seed selection and soil care to watering and protection from pests and weather. This year’s record pumpkin drew cheers as it settled onto the scale, marking a milestone moment for the grower and the community. The Youth Prize also showcased the next generation of competitors, celebrating dedication and learning at every age.
Lancaster's entry into the competition, held at the Topsfield Fair and hosted by the New England Giant Pumpkin Growers Association, weighed in at 2,598 pounds, surpassing last year’s Topsfield Fair record-breaking gourd of 2,507 pounds grown by Alex Noel of Abington, Connecticut.
Lancaster’s pumpkin also beat the current state record making his pumpkin the largest grown in Massachusetts. When asked about the work it takes to grow such a big pumpkin, a humble Lancaster said, “You get out of it what you put into it.”
This was Lancaster's third time winning the title at the Topsfield Fair. In 2013 he won with a 1,746.5 lb. pumpkin and in 2017 it was 2,003.5 lbs.
Lancaster, who has served as co-chair of the longtime event for many years, said this is his last year entering the contest.
The runner-up pumpkins are on display under a tent in the barnyard. The Topsfield Fair runs through Monday, October 12th.
Fairgoers can see the record-breaking pumpkin and other top entries on display during the Fair’s 11-day run. Displays provide a close-up look at how large these giants can grow and offer inspiring examples for anyone interested in gardening and agriculture. Photos are welcome, and visitors are encouraged to share their favorite moments from the display.
The Topsfield Fair thanks all growers, volunteers, and visitors who make the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In a must-see tradition each year. From record-setting pumpkins to youth achievements, the event reflects the spirit of friendly competition and the pride of local agriculture. With this year’s new record of 2,598 pounds, the bar has been raised for future seasons, and the excitement for what comes next is already growing.
Other notable winners:
2026 – King Arthur Flour Baking Contest
1st Brenda Chance, Seabrook, NH
2nd Leo DeVito, Swampscott, MA
3rd Connor D’Angelo, Andover, MA
2026 – Topsfield Fair Fall Harvest Baked Sweet Treat Contest
1st Heidi Sarno Middleton MA
2nd Lauren Ferridge Providence RI
3rd Katelynn Chuilli Danvers MA
2026 – Hot Dog Eating Competition
Robert McGee of Rockaway, New York with 12 hot dogs eaten in seven minutes
2026 – Jr. King and Queen
Junior King, Kyrie Mercedes, Age 5 from Salisbury
Junior Queen, Zaalee Pottle, Age 6 from Georgetown
2026 – Annual All New England Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off
Giant Pumpkin 1st Place, Woody Lancaster – Topsfield, MA – 2598 lbs
Giant Pumpkin 2nd Place, Larry & Shawna Masters – East Nassau – 2220 lbs
Giant Pumpkin 3rd Place, Joe Jutras – North Scituate, RI – 2197 lbs
Giant Pumpkin Youth Prize, Alistair Lehto, Fitchburg, MA – 1815 lbs
Admission to the 2026 Topsfield Fair is $20 per person each day. Children under eight are admitted free with an adult admission ticket.
SOURCE: Topsfield Fair
