What is Jack-O-Launch and Pumpkinfest?

Read the following for a description of the 2006 event.

On a gorgeous October Saturday at DeLaney Community Farm pumpkins were launched into a clear blue sky by a variety of human-powered catapults, trebuchets and air cannons. Over a dozen teams competed while thousands watched at the 8th Annual Jack-O-Launch, part of Aurora’s annual PumpkinFest. Launch contestants combined engineering mastery and a good dose of elbow grease with whimsical pageantry. They were judged on distance, accuracy, team presentation, machine design and sportsmanship. This challenge draws eclectic and innovative competitors who entertain not only with their machines but also with elaborate costumes.

Participants were not disappointed. In addition to the thrills of high-flying pumpkins, festival goers were not at a loss for activities. Children and adults indulged in pumpkin decorating, cross-stitching, candle making and crafting cornhusk dolls. Stilt walking, sack races, a pumpkin obstacle course, apple jumping and a hay bale maze were also on the agenda. Visitors were treated to tempting food, festive music, farm animals, a pumpkin patch and the DeLaney Community Farm’s market stand.

Jack-O-Launch and PumpkinFest are hosted by the City of Aurora to benefit DeLaney Community Farm, a working Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project of Denver Urban Gardens.

WINNERS FOR 2006 JACK-O-LAUNCH!

Trebuchet Division: USS Nuclear Pumpkin sunk the competition with a 443ft launch to take first prize. Highlanders I staked second with 322ft and Draco rounded out the top three with 125ft.

Compressed Air Cannon Division: Flamers Eating Tasty Unendangered Species dined on first with an amazing 1,212ft launch. Dick Cheney’s Wild Safari posed a serious challenge with a 1,075ft launch for second, while the Denver Mad Scientists followed in third with an 868ft launch which was likely due to their preoccupation with launching basketballs and stuffed animals.

Catapult Division: Caveman.com slings to first with a 698ft launch riding high style points. Risk Management Nightmare swiped second with limited style but a shocking 1,090ft launch, followed by Plod III in third with a launch of 184ft.

Check out one team's website, The Hurling Pumpkins