As the leaves change colors and the air takes on a crisper note, fall enthusiasts flock to various activities that define the essence of the season. For those who have a competitive nature, there exists a realm of competitive fall sports that challenge participants in unexpected ways. From the intricate artistry of pumpkin carving to the sheer strength required in stein holding competitions, and from nurturing colossal pumpkins to the lumberjack-like intensity of competitive tree felling, these events add a unique twist to autumn festivities. Read along, as we delve into the world of fall sports and competitions that celebrate both skill and spirit during this captivating season.

 

Pumpkin carving has always been a popular fall activity when the air turns a bit crisper. People of all ages pick out their favorite pumpkin from a local patch and pick a template to create a spooky or silly creation. But competitive pumpkin carving is a whole different ball game. Every year, as Halloween approaches, Chadds Ford, a town in Pennsylvania hosts “The Great Pumpkin Carve.” This event garners the attention of talented pumpkin carvers from all over the country. Over seventy giant pumpkins are carved into museum-worthy creations. 

 

Competitive beer Stein holding, or Masskrugstemmen, is a commonly held activity at beer festivals like Oktoberfest. Each competitor is given a beer stein filled with a set amount of beer, and they must extend their arm fully and hold the stein at shoulder height. The thumb is not allowed to be on the top of the handle, so this makes it more challenging for the competitors. They are judged on how long they can hold the stein with their arm straight out, without spilling any beer. The current record is held by Michael Tyler at the 2018 Lenny Coyne Memorial Hofbräu Masskrugstemmen Championships at the Steuben Day Parade and New York City Oktoberfest, with a time of twenty-one minutes and seven seconds. 

 

Competitive tree felling entails sharp axes, thin planks, and an elite climbing ability. Competitors’ chip notches along a thick, wooden pole. Then, they must insert a plank into those notches to climb higher up the trunk. They must repeat this until they reach the top, and then they must start all over on the other side of the trunk. All while racing against other competitors. The competitors are often referred to as “human beavers.”