Big Pumpkin Contest

Des Moines Pumpkin Growers Win State Fair Big Pumpkin Crown

The super-sized pumpkin grown by Don Young and Tommy Rhodes of Des Moines bested the competition, tipping the scale at 1,221 pounds, to win First Place and a $1,850 cash award in the Big Pumpkin Contest, judged Friday, August 11, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Pete and Alba Casper of Peosta claimed Second Place and $850, with a 1,195-pound pumpkin. Chad Meyer of Indianola took home Third Place and $500, with an 892-pound pumpkin.