The Empire State has plenty of popular fall attractions, just take a look at the multi-month long Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze down in the Hudson Valley! Like always though, some of our favorite ways to stay busy in New York happen to be lesser-known activities to outsiders. If you’re ready to enjoy a different side of our state, then check out how you can watch pumpkins soar over into the St. Lawrence River up north in the Thousand Islands.
Head up north towards New York’s Thousand Islands Region and you’ll find all sorts of one-of-a-kind attractions and small towns, but each year once fall rolls around, a little-known tradition is celebrated out along the riverfront.
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
People from all around the Thousand Islands and beyond make their way out to the town of Clayton’s waterfront to experience a pumpkin-filled day unlike any other.
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
An annual event that’s been happening for nearly 10-years now, Clayton’s Punkin Chunkin Festival will once again be taking place on Saturday, October 19th.
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
Rain or shine, you’ll find people exploring the streets of Clayton to check out all the different local vendors lined up.
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
The Punkin Chunkin Festival also features more than just your typical vendors, there’s also quite a delicious aspect to this event.
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
The festival hosts BBQ contests and has restaurants from all over the area set up and serving their best BBQ eats.
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
As much as we like to watch the BBQ contets and to check out the Farmers Market that will be taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., it’s the action out by the water that we’re really here for!
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
Along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, you’ll see a variety of catapults lined up and ready to put on a show for you.
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Sponsors and people from all around the region put together their best catapults in an effort to see who can launch pumpkins the farthers out onto the St. Lawrence River.
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
You might be used to going for scenic boat rides out on this river, but on Saturday, October 19th you’ll see pumpkins flying over and into the St. Lawrence.
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
With both Youth and Adult awards given out to those who launch their pumpkins the farthest, you’ll want to stick around to see the best of the best.
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
Happening only once a year, see what it’s like to take part in one of New York’s most whimsical fall traditions.
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook To find out more about attending Clayton’s Punkin Chunkin Festival, click here.
Wondering what other celebrations you can attend this season? Then be sure to also take a look at how you can Ride A Gondola, Scenic Chairlift, Zipline, And More All At New York’s Gore Mountain Harvest Fest!An
Punkin’ Chunkin’ Festival - Clayton, NY/Facebook
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
Clayton Chamber of Commerce/Facebook
To find out more about attending Clayton’s Punkin Chunkin Festival, click here.
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