Anchorage man wins another giant pumpkin weigh-off

Anchorage grower Dale Marshall defended his crown during the 18th Annual Alaska Midnight Sun Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off at the Alaska State Fair.

Marshall won with a 2,035-pound pumpkin, earning yet another victory in this competition. He said that he doesn't worry about winning and simply enjoys the growing process.

“You just do it to go as big as you can," Marshall said.

Despite the fact that this year's giant pumpkin competition only had two entries, there was a large and enthusiastic crowed gathered inside the Craig Taylor Farm Exhibits building Monday, Aug. 26.

ASF Crops Superintendent Kathy Liska said that she was thrilled with the overall turnout.

“It blew my mind. I think it was the biggest one we've ever had," Liska said.

Liska said this summer wasn't ideal for growers due to cool weather and other factors. She said there were originally five contestants signed up but only two were able to participate this time around.

“It was a hard growing year," Liska said.

Many fairgoers eagerly expect to see the giant pumpkins and giant cabbages each year. Lisa said that both competitions highlight Alaskan agriculture which is the true spirit of the Fair.

“It's the Alaska State Fair. It's built on agriculture, not just the giants. I think it means a lot," Liska said. “Corny as it may sound... it's the heartbeat of the Fair. Everything else has been built around it. As long as this stays, the fair is going to sustain.”

Liska said the crops department showcases the “number one exhibits” of the Fair with its various entries from people across the state.

“You can guarantee that everyone who walks through the gate will walk through this building,” Liska said.

Seth Dinkel and his 5-year-old son Silas won second place with a 734-pound pumpkin. Giant cabbage growing is a longtime family tradition for the Dinkels but this was their first year entering a giant pumpkin.

“It was a lot of fun," Dinkel said. “I think we're lucky it didn't split or anything.”

Dinkel said his 7-year-old son Paul is entering the giant cabbage event. He said that the whole family was involved in the growing process and it was an enjoyable summer activity.

“It's a great way to get outside and spend time together," Dinkel said.

Marshall marveled at the Dinkel family's first-time pumpkin entry.

“That's pretty impressive for a first year," Marshall said.

This was Marshall's 16th time entering the giant pumpkin competition. He said it's a lot of work but he enjoys it, especially when more people try it out.

“As long as there new blood going and new competition, its fun," Marshall said.

The 28th Annual Giant Cabbage Weigh-Off takes place Friday, Aug. 30 at 6 p.m.

For more information about the 2024 Alaska State Fair season, visit alaskastatefair.org.