Get Ready for the 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show

Each October, downtown Circleville becomes the center of one of Ohio’s most recognizable fall traditions. The 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show returns October 21–24, 2026, filling the streets with giant pumpkins, parades, entertainment, contests, exhibits and plenty of pumpkin food.
For a first-time visitor, there is a lot to take in. Pumpkin Show stretches throughout downtown, with something happening around nearly every corner. But some of the best parts of the experience are the traditions that have kept generations coming back.
Here are a few things to look for as you plan your 2026 visit.
Start with the Pumpkins
This is Pumpkin Show, after all.
Wednesday morning begins with the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In at Court and Main streets, followed by the opening of displays throughout downtown. Giant pumpkins are only part of what you’ll find. Fruits and vegetables, flowers, canned goods, baked goods, arts and crafts and other exhibits showcase the agricultural and community traditions behind the Show.
And don’t miss one of Circleville’s most photographed Pumpkin Show traditions: the World’s Largest Pumpkin Pie.
These displays are part of what separates Pumpkin Show from a typical fall festival. Take some time away from the rides and midway to explore them.
Come Hungry
Trying pumpkin food is practically part of the experience.
The 2026 Pumpkin Show schedule includes everything from pumpkin donuts, pie, ice cream and cheesecake to pumpkin burgers, chili, pancakes, waffles and whoopie pies.
There are some more unexpected choices too, including pumpkin sloppy joes, pumpkin pierogies, pumpkin corn dogs with cheese on a stick, pumpkin pulled pork, pumpkin elephant ears and more.
Many Pumpkin Show food traditions are also connected to local schools, service organizations and community groups. For visitors, trying something from one of these longstanding booths is another way to experience the community behind the Show.
You probably won’t try everything in one visit, and that’s part of the fun.
Find Your Parade Spot
Parades are a big part of Pumpkin Show tradition, and there are several opportunities to experience one.
Wednesday features the Little Miss Pumpkin Show Parade and Miss Pumpkin Show Parade. Thursday brings the Baby Parade and Parade of Bands. Friday includes the Pet Parade and Fraternal & Civic Organizations Parade, and Saturday evening brings the OFEA Queen’s Parade.
Each has its own personality, so check the schedule and choose the ones you want to see before you arrive.
Something Special for 2026
Visitors can get an early start on Pumpkin Show week this year with special activities on Tuesday, October 20.
Preview Night runs from 5 to 10 p.m., and the Opening Ceremony begins at 5 p.m. at The Savings Bank Stage at Pumpkin Show Park.
At 7 p.m., the Pumpkin Show Celebrates 250 Years of Agriculture Parade will travel through downtown Circleville as part of the 2026 celebration.
These Tuesday activities are a special part of the 2026 schedule, leading into the traditional four-day Circleville Pumpkin Show Wednesday through Saturday.
Agriculture also receives an added spotlight throughout this year’s Show, including canning demonstrations presented with Ohio State University Extension of Pickaway County and the Pumpkin Show Canned Goods Committee.
Look Beyond the Midway
There is plenty happening beyond the rides.
Entertainment takes place on stages throughout downtown, including The Savings Bank Stage at Pumpkin Show Park, the Pickaway-Franklin Street Stage and the Pinckney Street Stage. The schedule also includes craft demonstrations, contests, community performances and other activities throughout the week.
Take some time to explore the exhibits, watch a demonstration, listen to live music and walk the downtown streets. Locally owned shops, restaurants and businesses are part of the community welcoming thousands of visitors to Circleville each October.
Plan Ahead
With so much happening, a little planning can make your Pumpkin Show visit easier.
Look through the official schedule before you arrive and make note of the parades, contests or entertainment you especially want to see. Then leave some room in your plans to explore.
Visitors planning to enjoy the midway can purchase discounted ride tickets and unlimited-ride wristbands in advance. Online ride sales end Monday, October 19 at 11:59 p.m. Unlimited-ride wristbands have designated hours, including Tuesday Preview Night and daytime hours Wednesday through Saturday, so check the details before purchasing. Ride More for Less 2026
Mobility scooters will also be available during the Show, and advance reservations are recommended to help ensure availability. Mobility Scooters for Rent
Make It a Pickaway County Visit
Pumpkin Show may bring you to Circleville, but it doesn’t have to be your only stop.
Make time for a fall drive, visit a local restaurant, explore Pickaway County’s shops and farm markets, or stay overnight and experience more of the area.
The 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show runs October 21–24, 2026, with special Preview Night activities on Tuesday, October 20.
Come for the pumpkins. Try something you can only find during Pumpkin Show week. Find a parade spot. Explore the displays. And experience a tradition that has been bringing people to downtown Circleville for more than a century.
Plan your Pumpkin Show visit at PumpkinShow.com and discover more of Pickaway County at Pickaway.com.