The Great Pumpkin Race
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The Great Pumpkin Race
The Great Pumpkin Race is the 28th anniversary event held on October 31, 2026 at the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, 2950 Whipple Ave NW, Canton, OH 44708. The event is in person only; a virtual option is not offered.
Multiple running and walking distances are available:
- 100 Yards (Lil' Pumpkin Dash, ages 7 and under)
- 1 Mile (Special Olympian and Fun Run/Walk)
- 4 Miles (Special Olympian and Run/Walk)
Race headquarters provides inside holding areas and restroom facilities. Wheelchairs, strollers and dogs are welcome. In addition to the road events, the program includes pumpkin cart racing, pumpkin decorating and other community activities. Packet pickup is available on the day before the event and on the event day.
The 100 Yard and 1 Mile finishes receive finisher medals; the 1 Mile is described as untimed. The 4 Mile is a timed event and is eligible for series competition. Awards include top three male and female overall placings and top three male and female placings across multiple age groups. There is also a Largest Team category with prizes for the team with the most combined registrants across the Lil Pumpkin Dash, 1 Mile and 4 Mile events.
The race supports Special Olympic athletes in Stark County. Registrations and donations help fund local programs and purchase uniforms, equipment and facility rentals. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
