From California Post · · 40s
California Pumpkin Contest Wins
Travis Gienger's giant pumpkin wins $21,501 at Half Moon Bay's 53rd Safeway contest.
In brief
Travis Gienger's giant pumpkin wins $21,501 at Half Moon Bay's 53rd Safeway contest. Travis Gienger of Minnesota won $21,501 for his 2,389-pound pumpkin at California's 53rd Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off. Originally reported by California Post.
Pumpkin Contest Victory
California hosted its 53rd Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026.
Minnesota Grower Wins
Travis Gienger of Anoka, Minn., won first place with a 2,389-pound pumpkin.
Winning Prize
Gienger earned $21,501 prize money and a championship ring after transporting his pumpkin 2,150 miles.
Record Holder
Gienger previously won the event four times and set a 2023 world record of 2,749 pounds.
The headline
Travis Gienger of Minnesota won $21,501 for his 2,389-pound pumpkin at California's 53rd Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off.
