Final Petersburg Punkin’ Chunkin’ set for Sunday

PETERSBURG, NE — Exploded pumpkins will litter a field east of Petersburg for the final time this weekend.

The harvest-time tradition of launching giant orange gourds will cease after one final heave this Sunday.  Punkin’ Chunkin’ will be no more.

2019 marks the 16th year that hundreds (sometimes thousands) flock to the Boone County community for a day of family fun.  If you’re unfamiliar, contestants compete in air gun, mechanical, trebuchet and catapult divisions to see who can fling pumpkins the furthest and most accurate.  Winners earn $500 awards.  The record for longest shot recorded is 4,095 feet.

This year’s event starts at 1:00 p.m. a half mile east of Petersburg on Highway 32.  Kids activities include a petting zoo, treasure hunt and obstacle course.  Admission is free.

The event is dependent on weather, harvest and field conditions.  Check the Petersburg Community Club’s Facebook page for updates.