Watch Giant Pumpkins Drop at The Smoky Lake Pumpkin Fair

Fall 2025

Sep 15

When fall’s crisp air begins to settle in Alberta, there’s one event that captures the season in full glory: the Smoky Lake Pumpkin Fair (also known as the Great White North Pumpkin Fair & Weigh-Off). Every year, usually during the first weekend in October, this small town becomes a big stage for pumpkins, food, family fun, and community spirit.

If you haven’t been, it’s the place in Alberta to see giant pumpkins grown through the summer, weighed off and dropped from the sky to watch smash on the ground! The Smoky Lake Pumpkin Drop should make it on to every Fall Bucket List!

Here’s what to expect at the Festival

Friday, October 3, 2025

Family-friendly Midway
Beer Gardens
Food Trucks
Artisan Market

Saturday October 4, 2025

Pancake Breakfast at the Lions Den
Pumpkin Drop
Live Pumpkin Carving
Perogy Lunch
Corn Maze
Ukrainian Showcase at the Ukrainian National Hall
Food Truck Food Court at the Ag Society Parking Lot
Pumpkin Weigh-off at the Complex Arena
Threshing & Spinning Demos at the Museum

Sunday, October 6, 2025

Family Day at Metis Crossing. Experience things to do at Métis Crossing and deepen your understanding of the Métis story through immersive, hands-on activities.

Tips for Visiting Smoky Lake Pumpkin Weigh Off & Fair

Go on Saturday (if you can)
Many of the big events are Saturday: weigh-offs, shows, markets. If you only have a day, that’s your best bet. Sandy Joe+1
Wear layers & good footwear
October weather in rural Alberta can be beautiful or brisk. Some walking, maybe mud, so be prepared.
Arrive early for marquee events
For a good view of the pumpkin weigh-off or pumpkin drop. Crowds gather.
Parking & shuttle info
There are shuttle services during the festival, especially connecting major sites. If mobility is an issue, plan your route ahead. Sandy Joe+1
Bring cash & small bills
Some vendors may not take cards, and for tipping or small purchases, cash always helps.
Stay a bit longer
Smoky Lake and its surroundings are charming. Things like Métis Crossing, museums, rural scenery make it more than a one-stop event.