Young spectators and participants gather around the multi-lane wooden ramp to watch the zucchinis race down the track at the 13th annual event. Photo by Khushi Salgia


RIO LINDA, CA (MPG) - The Rio Linda community gathered for a day of creative crafting, local vendors and high-speed competition at the 13th annual zucchini race, which took place at the Rio Linda Country Faire on Sept. 19. Complete with a five-foot-tall wooden launch ramp and a Pinewood Derby–style track, the free public event invites attendees of all ages to transform garden squash into rolling race vehicles.

The beloved tradition is put on by the Rio Linda Grange, a fraternal organization deeply rooted in community advocacy and agricultural service. The idea originally came to life as a creative solution to a common seasonal problem in local gardens: an overwhelming surplus of summer zucchinis.

“We were like, ‘What do you do with all the zucchinis?’” said Susan Hank, president of the Rio Linda Grange.

Rather than letting the excess harvest go to waste, the Grange turned it into a cornerstone community celebration. Hank joked that they call the zucchini “the fastest vegetable in the West.”

Beyond hosting quirky local traditions like the vegetable derby, the Grange actively works to preserve and teach valuable “grandma skills” such as knitting, baking, sewing and handiwork, to ensure these practical traditions and domestic arts are passed down to younger generations.

To construct a racer, participants mount a zucchini or gourd onto a set of toy car wheels and heavily decorate their produce before hitting the track. Ahead of the official competition, racers are allowed to test out their customized cars on the wooden ramp to see how well the steering holds up and make any last-minute mechanic tweaks before the main heats begin.

 Ten-year-old Kendalyn Holverson made an October-inspired racer based on her birthday monthy. Photo by Khushi Salgia

The contest features separate competitive categories for both children and adults to keep the playing field fair and fun. Drivers vie for two main awards: one prize based strictly on distance down the track, and another celebrating the most creative and visually striking decorations. The building supplies, including the base toy cars, crafting materials and decorative accents, are generously donated by local community members to ensure the workshop remains accessible to everyone.

Once the high-stakes racing wraps up and the winners are crowned, participants have the option to take their customized produce home as a keepsake or send the post-race squash off to be composted. The reusable toy bases and decorative elements are salvaged and stored for future events.

For many young attendees, the highlight of the event is the chance to spend the afternoon assembling a unique creation alongside family and neighbors. Kendalyn Holverson, 10, was participating in the zucchini race for her very first time. Turning 11 in October, Holverson leaned into a festive, autumn-inspired aesthetic for her entry, carefully attaching pipe cleaners to give her squash what she proudly described as “curly hair.”

For Holverson, the spirit of the day wasn't about competitive pressure, but rather the joy of taking part in the festivities. She shared that she was just there to have fun and enjoy the craft table, regardless of whether her car ended up crossing the finish line first or last.

 Presented here are the winners for the best decorated cars amongst the children. Photo by Khushi Salgia

The annual zucchini race is ultimately about far more than just fast produce. It stands as a lighthearted local tradition that highlights creativity, grassroots community connection, and the enduring spirit of service in Rio Linda.