Competition Highlights at N.C. State Fair
RALEIGH – The annual giant pumpkin and watermelon competition showcased impressive entries on October 13, 2026, during the N.C. State Fair. The winning fruits will be displayed at the Agri Supply Expo Center for attendees to admire and photograph from October 15 to 25.
This year’s event included a weigh-in sanctioned by The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, welcoming participants from various states. Kent Yelverton, the fair director, emphasized the significance of the giant pumpkin and watermelon displays, stating, “These giants will be photographed thousands of times during the fair’s 11-day run.” He expressed gratitude to the growers for their dedication and effort in producing these remarkable specimens for the fair.
Record-Setting Entries
Albert Rodebaugh from Craigsville, West Virginia, took home the top prize with a remarkable 2,123-pound pumpkin. In addition to the first-place win, Rodebaugh was also honored with the Howard Dill Award for the most aesthetically pleasing pumpkin in the competition. Virginia residents David and Gwen Harris set a state record with their second-place pumpkin, weighing 1,861.8 pounds. The third-place entry came from father-daughter team Chris and Stella Rodebaugh of Lewisburg, West Virginia, with their 1,422-pound pumpkin.
Within the North Carolina-only category, the winning pumpkin was cultivated by James Cain of King, weighing in at 585.4 pounds.
Watermelon Winners Shine
The watermelon category displayed equally impressive entries, with Todd Dawson of Garner achieving first place for his 281.6-pound watermelon. Andrew Vial from Liberty followed closely in second with a watermelon weighing 257.8 pounds. Christopher Kent from Sevierville, Tennessee, rounded out the top three with a 251.6-pound entry.
Prizes and Fair Details
The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth, which promotes the growth of giant vegetables, awards the top three winners in the pumpkin category between $1.50 and $3 per pound, while watermelon winners receive between $3 and $6 per pound.
The 2026 N.C. State Fair will take place at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh from October 15 to 25, offering a variety of entertainment, rides, games, animals, family activities, competitions, and vendors, along with creative food options. According to the fair organizers, it provides a unique experience for all attendees.
Source: N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
