Pumpkin Chunkin YYC

About Us

A Great Event

** PLEASE NOTE ** The 2023 Pumpkin Chunkin event has been postponed until next year - we need to let those pumpkins keep growing so they really make a splash when we're back in 2024! Sorry to disappoint but we will return bigger and better than ever!

Welcome to PUMPKIN CHUNKIN YYC – the annual Autumn festival where pumpkins fly!

As the leaves turn golden and the air crisps up, we gather to celebrate the bounty of the season in the most exciting way possible: launching pumpkins with trebuchets! It's a sight to behold as the massive pumpkins soar through the sky, propelled by the mighty machines.

But this is no ordinary competition - it's a test of engineering creativity and skill as teams compete to see who can launch their pumpkins the farthest, the fastest, and the most accurately. And the best part? The pumpkins aren't just for show - we donate all contestant and sponsor fees as well as guest food donations to local charities after the festival.

Held annually at the famous Granary Road, southwest of Calgary, there is something for everyone in the family.

So come join us for a day of PUMPKIN CHUNKIN fun, and so much more, and help us make a difference in our community!

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@pumpkinchunkinyyc.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Who can enter?

The short answer is, anyone who can built a trebuchet! This can be a work team building event, this can be a family affair, this can be a corporate project. Past entrants have included all of the above.

What is the difference between a trebuchet and a catapult?

Trebuchets are a type of catapult that uses counterweight to add power to the movement of the arm. Catapults do not have counterweight. All trebuchets are catapults but not all catapults are trebuchets.

Why Pumpkin Chunkin?

Why not!? What's better than gathering good people, innovative machine building, music, crisp Fall air, and flying pumpkins for a good cause?

Is this event family friendly?

This event couldn't be more family friendly if we tried! The spectacle of flying pumpkins is enjoyed by all ages but there are small games and side events that kids will love.

How far do the pumpkins launch?

They can go pretty far! We've seen everything from a couple feet to a several hundred . But, every launch excitement guaranteed!

What happens to the pumpkins in the field afterwards?

They're gladly enjoyed by the deer, coyotes and other wild friends.

What are the safety measures?

Don't be a nerd. Just kidding, we've got the risky areas cordoned off and EMS personnel on hand in case they're needed. In truth, the launching of pumpkins is a pretty low risk activity.

Are air/compression cannons allowed?

Why, you got one? Actually, not this year but we do have plans to have a cannon division in the coming years so if you would like to discuss doing something as an exhibition, let’s chat!