The annual Largest Pumpkin and Watermelon Contest weigh-in took place last week in the West Hall at the Kentucky Exposition Center showcasing some of the heaviest homegrown produce in the state.
This year’s champions included a massive 1,621-pound pumpkin grown by Josh Monin and a 258.4-pound watermelon from Nick McCaslin.
New in 2025, there was a higher premium payout for the 1st Place Largest Pumpkin. This year, the payout increased from $1 per pound to $2 per pound if the 1st place pumpkin weighs over 1,000 pounds.
The winning gourds and all that competed are on display in the West Hall through the remainder of the Kentucky State Fair.
The State Fair runs through August 24 at the fairgrounds in Louisville.
Plan your trip ahead of time to make sure you get to see everything you want with our digital Daily Schedule.
Fairgoers wanting to see livestock and animals while visiting will want to check the daily schedule as each day is different! Visiting on Monday? Goats will be available in West Hall, and there will be plenty of animals to see in Discovery Farm located in AgLand (South Wing A).
Ready to look the part of the fair? Official Kentucky State Fair merch is available online and on-site in North Wing Lobby.
The Kentucky State Fair minor attendance policy is in effect every day of the fair. Hours vary and are listed online.
Kentucky Venues