Frerichs Farm Hosts its 15th Annual Pumpkin Weigh-off

The annual pumpkin weigh-off at Frerichs Farm in Warren is wholesome family fun, and that’s why every year thousands attend. What kid isn’t sucked into the deepest of autumnal reveries when walking through a field of giant pumpkins, many easily topping 1,000 pounds? Then there’s the Big Red Barn Bluegrass Band, pumpkin painting and a crane sending hundreds of pounds of pumpkin crashing to the ground with what farm owner David Frerich describes gleefully as “the most unusual whoompf sound.”

But behind the light fall fest feel is an intense competition, thanks to the Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Growers Association. We live in a hotbed for gargantuan gourds, with Greene’s own Ron Wallace boasting the world’s first one-ton pumpkin back in 2012. For the select few at the cutting edge, meticulous preparations for this day began months or even years ago. The most ambitious growers dream bigger than the $3,500 first prize, and instead look to write their name in the history books.

Speaking to the camaraderie of the pumpkin growing community, David says “It’s very competitive, but they share almost every secret,” making me wonder what bits of black magic they keep to themselves. There’s a vibrant online community dedicated to every aspect of pumpkin growing, including getting the best genetics. Pedigree pumpkin seeds sell at auction on sites like www.bigpumpkins.com for upwards of $700, but you can look at them for free, with $5 parking. Many of the pumpkins featured at Frerichs are presold to casinos and stores, or destined for the Roger Williams Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. So bring the kids, and watch as their – and your – eyes widen with excitement as they view the Great Pumpkin at Frerichs Farm. October 10 (weather permitting). 9am to 5pm. 65 Kinnicutt Ave, Warren. 401-245-8245