West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Since 2004, people from around the country have gathered in Tualatin for the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta, billed as one of Oregon's most unique fall festivals, to watch costumed characters paddle giant pumpkin boats. The giant pumpkins come from the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers. On Saturday, Pumpkins and Pints at Stickmen Brewing Company brings with the Terminator Weigh-Off of enormous pumpkins, giant tomatoes and other oversized vegetables, plus wood-fired pizza and Stickmen craft beer. A 5K Regatta Run/Walk is hosted by the Tualatin Rotary. On Sunday at Lake of the Commons the festival adds pumpkin races, food, entertainment, pumpkin bowling and pumpkin golf. The regatta has a national reputation and draws thousands of people.

Our take: Start at Stickmen Brewing for the Terminator Weigh-Off and wood-fired pizza, then head to Lake of the Commons for the pumpkin-boat races.