Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard is set to host its annual Pumpkin Regatta on Friday, Oct. 11, from 4 to 7 pm. The event, now in its 12th year, aims to raise funds for The Confetti Foundation, a local nonprofit that provides birthday parties for children hospitalized on their special day.
Michael Millerick, General Manager of Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard, describes the regatta in an email as a “favorite for our yacht captains and crew who love to race against each other for the fastest time in our bright orange pumpkins.”
The relay-style race takes place across the shipyard’s ‘Main Street’ basin, with teams competing for bragging rights as the fastest crew. Participants are encouraged to race multiple times to improve their times, with prizes awarded for the fastest team and best costumes.
“It’s a sure sign of fall in full swing when this perennial event comes around,” Millerick says. “We can’t think of a better way to celebrate before our customers head south for the winter.”
The Confetti Foundation, based in Middletown, provides birthday gifts, decorations, and party supplies to hospitalized children. Stephanie Frazier Grimm, the organization’s founder, expresses gratitude for being chosen as this year’s beneficiary.
“We firmly believe that every child deserves to be celebrated, and we admire the values, generosity and commitment that Safe Harbor Marinas brings to their customers, community and our mission,” Grimm says.
Last year’s event drew over 125 participants and raised more than $6,000 for Friends of Newport Skatepark. Organizers hope to surpass that figure this year.
The regatta is open to paddlers and spectators alike, with a $25 entry fee. Additional fundraising efforts include a silent auction and direct donation opportunities during the event.
Local businesses have contributed to the cause, donating products and overnight stays for the auction and raffle. Supporters include The Brenton Hotel, CK Bradley, Clarke Cooke House, and Newport Mansions, among others.
Food from Wally’s Wieners will be available, along with beverages provided by sponsors such as RC Marine Electric, SKYLINK Tek, and Newport Yacht Builders.
Brad Read, Executive Director of Sail Newport, will serve as master of ceremonies for the event.
Millerick emphasizes the lighthearted nature of the regatta, noting it provides a welcome break for captains and crew preparing for their southern migration.
“The energy around the Pumpkin Regatta is always lighthearted and festive, which is a nice outlet for captains and crew who are often working long days getting ready for their return to warmer climates,” he says.
Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard employees play a crucial role in organizing the event, painting fiberglass pumpkins, arranging food and beverages, and soliciting donations for the silent auction.
Those interested in participating or making a donation can contact Veronica Brown at 401-855-0945 or email vbrown@shmarinas.com. Registration and donation options are also available online.
As the yachting community prepares to gather for an evening of fun and philanthropy, the Pumpkin Regatta stands as a testament to the spirit of giving that characterizes Newport’s maritime culture.
“We hope to keep this tradition going for many years to come,” Millerick says, underscoring the event’s importance to both the local community and the children it aims to support.
