How to Attend the Annual Punkin Chunkin in Delaware

Pumpkins ready for a ride Aside from knowing the objective is to whirl a pumpkin a great distance, it is helpful to know the history behind Punkin Chunkin. Some good ‘ole boys, in 1986, couldn’t pass on a challenge about who could fling a pumpkin furthest. In that friendly contest, the winner flung a pumpkin 126 feet with his diabolical catapult. Organized by volunteers, the event now draws over 20,000 people.

This team is Chucky You can buy food and beverages at the event or you can bring your own. And speaking of food, there is a Punkin Chunkin Cooking Contest where you can display your cooking prowess making punkin-based treats.

What a machine! The Punkin Chunkin field is located east of Bridgeville in southwestern Delaware. Punkin Chunkin is a 3-day event the weekend following Halloween: Friday and Saturday, 7:30am-9:00pm, and Sunday, 7:30am-5:00pm. DIRECTIONS FROM WASHINGTON DC: Take Route 50 East to 404 towards Bridgeville,DE. Turn Left on to Route 404 (W. Newton Rd) and go to Route 13. Turn Right and go South to Route 40 (Redden Rd). Turn Left and follow signs to Deer Forrest Rd. Turn Right and go to Chaplin’s Chapel Rd. Turn Right. The Chunk is straight ahead.

Pumpkin propelled You can buy tickets in advance or at the event. The admission fee is $7 for adults, children under 10 admitted free, and there’s a $2 parking fee. Check the website to ensure those prices have not changed. Pets are not allowed.

Bragging rights You can get more information about the dates, times, directions, even pictures of previous Punkin Chunkin events at www.punkinchunkin.com.