The Gourd-acious Battle: B.C.'s Giant Pumpkin Weigh-off Crowned New Champion!

In an astonishing display of horticultural prowess, a colossal pumpkin named ‘Orangina’ has clinched the coveted title of B.C.’s heaviest giant pumpkin during the annual weigh-off held at Krause Berry Farms in Langley. This impressive gourd tipped the scales at an astonishing 1,161 pounds, narrowly beating its closest competitor by a mere two pounds!

The Polay family, the proud growers of Orangina, dedicated months of meticulous care to ensure the pumpkin's triumph at the contest. In an interview leading up to the event, they revealed that nurturing this giant was akin to having a full-time job. "My kids will tell you, I spend more time with the pumpkin than them sometimes,” joked Mike Polay, demonstrating the family's commitment and passion for their gourd.

Once the excitement of the weigh-off subsided, Orangina found a new home where she could "enjoy a well-deserved retirement" at Stong’s Market, a local grocery store. It’s not just the weigh-off that featured competition; categories such as the prettiest pumpkin, longest gourd, and largest watermelon showcased the incredible variety present in the region, making it a fun day out for pumpkin enthusiasts and their families.

This year’s event marked a significant moment in local agricultural tradition, being recognized as the only certified giant pumpkin contest in Western Canada. While the Polay family basked in their win, it's worth noting that the current Guinness World Record for the heaviest pumpkin remains a staggering 2,702 pounds, a title held since 2021 by an Italian grower.

As the pumpkin-growing season wraps up, the excitement for next year’s contest is already brewing among local gardeners. Who will take the crown next? Don’t miss out—mark your calendars for next year’s colossal showdown!

Stay tuned for more updates on the world of giant pumpkins and the vibrant community behind this incredible event!