Watch Giant Pumpkins Drop at The Smoky Lake Pumpkin Fair

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.