🎃 Pumpkin Chunking: A Thanksgiving Tradition That Hits the Heart (and the Pond)

Twenty years ago, my dad launched a tradition that turned leftover Halloween pumpkins into airborne symbols of joy, competition, and family connection. It started when my daughter was just 3 or 4 years old. Now she’s 24, and this quirky ritual—affectionately known as pumpkin chunking—has become a beloved Thanksgiving staple.

Here’s how it works:

🧡 Step 1: Everyone brings their pumpkins to my parents’ farm—usually 12 to 18 in total. All shapes, sizes, and even a rogue gourd or two.

🍽️ Step 2: We feast on my mom’s legendary Thanksgiving meal, especially her super special stuffing.

🐄 Step 3: After cleanup, we head to the top of the hill, open the gate to the cow pasture, and prepare for launch.

🎯 Step 4: The goal? Hurl your pumpkin down the hill and into the pond. The cows, ever curious, often try to intercept (no animals harmed—they’re just part of the fun).

🏆 Step 5: Whoever sinks the most pumpkins wins… bragging rights, of course.

Since my dad passed, I’ve done my best to keep the tradition alive. Last year, we chunked pumpkins with my mom, my daughter, my nephew, and my S.O. It wasn’t the same without Dad, but I swear he was cheering us on. Aunt Shelly even spotted a glowing light in the video—maybe a little wink from him, depending on what you believe.

As our family circle shifts and participation dwindles, I hold tight to the silly, sacred moments we’ve captured over the years. They remind me that joy doesn’t have to be polished—it just has to be shared.

🧡 Do you have a unique Thanksgiving tradition? I’d love to hear it. Drop a comment or share your story with Kicking the Chaos. And don’t forget to check out the Facebook page—I’ll do my best to post a pumpkin chunking video for your viewing pleasure.