Central Ohio's free pumpkin classic about 25 miles south of Columbus, with giant squash, parades, rides, and hundreds of thousands of visitors across four mid-October days.
The Circleville Pumpkin Show runs Wednesday, October 21, through Saturday, October 24, 2026, in downtown Circleville. Admission is free. The show opens about 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily and routinely draws on the order of 400,000 visitors across the four days for giant pumpkins, pumpkin donuts, pies, contests, bands, and midway rides.
Expect multiple parades, home arts and baking displays, more than 100,000 pounds of pumpkins and gourds on view, and Poor Jack Amusements rides that sell discounted wristbands online before the show. Circleville sits on U.S. 23 about 25 miles south of Columbus, close enough for an evening trip and big enough that parking strategy matters.
Use shuttle lots such as AMVETS, Lighthouse Baptist, or Ohio Christian University rather than circling downtown endlessly. Wear walking shoes, budget for food and rides even though the gate is free, and pick one parade night if crowds are not your favorite part of fall.
FAQ
Is the Pumpkin Show free?
Yes. Admission is free. Food, rides, games, and souvenirs are separate.
How far is Circleville from Columbus?
About 25 miles south on U.S. 23, typically 35 to 50 minutes depending on traffic and where you park.
When should I go?
Weekday afternoons are calmer. Saturday nights and parade times are the densest. Arrive early if giant pumpkins and main-street photos are the goal.
It is on our calendar for the Columbus area.
See what else is up that week on our events page.
