The annual Pumpkin Regatta has come to a close, and fall truly feels to be setting in for students at Tualatin.
The Pumpkin Regatta, which took place on Oct. 19, is always a fan favorite tradition amongst the Tualatin student body. What’s not to love? From watching people race in giant pumpkins to grabbing a snack from a food cart, there was something for everyone at this fall festival.
The magic of the West Coast Pumpkin Regatta started in 2004, and it has been a crucial part of the Tualatin community ever since. The star of the show is the pumpkin race held at noon. Crowds of onlookers gathered around the Lake of the Commons to see members of the community race in enormous pumpkin boats.
“It’s such a unique thing to do – just the activity in itself,” Keira Schilling, a Tualatin student who recently went to the Pumpkin Regatta, remarked. “It’s so entertaining to watch. It’s what makes the festival enjoyable and what will bring people there. Unique activities always draw people in.”
While exciting to watch, the pumpkin race is far from the only enjoyable part of the festival. To many, the best bit wasn’t the exhilarating pumpkin race; it was the many activities offered before and after. In years past, there have been pumpkin golf, face painting, costume competitions, local vendors and a plethora of food trucks.
Many clubs and after school activities at TuHS also like to get in on the fun. The TuHs band has taken an active role in the Regatta year after year. They played during the festival, setting the mood for the event. Regatta fun isn’t just about enjoying fall festivities; it provides an interactive, community-building experience for many students.
“The Pumpkin Regatta is super fun to go to because I get to go with the marching band and we get to play for all of the people,” sophomore Josie Wiese said. “It’s nice to walk around and have fun with friends. A lot of students like going to the Pumpkin Regatta. Not only those who are involved in the activities, but those who just want to hang out and have a good time.”
Next year, grab some friends so you don’t miss out on the fun! The Pumpkin Regatta satisfied everyone looking to have a good time this autumn. Mark it on your calendar for a Sunday filled with memories and friends. From pumpkin racing to making memories with peers, there’s an abundance of fall fun at the West Coast Pumpkin Regatta.
