969-Pound Pumpkin On Display At Bearss Groves Farmers Market

TAMPA, FL — Bearss Groves, a family-run farmers market in North Tampa, is now home to Florida’s largest pumpkin, weighing 969 pounds.

The gigantic pumpkin arrived on Wednesday from Michigan where Bearss Groves purchased it in an auction.

The pumpkin is on display in front of the farmer’s market for visitors to see while they select their own pumpkins, gourds and other seasonal produce.

Families, including those with pet children, are welcome to drop by and take photos in front of the pumpkin free of charge.

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A group of children from Steps to Maturity, an Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County provider, were the first to experience Florida’s largest pumpkin. The children ages 3 and 4 watched in awe as the 969-pound pumpkin was transported by tractor and placed in front of the farm stand.

Then they participated in an immersive sensory activity, exploring the insides of a pumpkin.

The giant pumpkin will be on display at Bearss Groves, 14316 Lake Magdalene Blvd., Tampa, through October. The farmers market is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.