On Wednesday, Oct. 30, bicyclists from across Marin County gathered in Fairfax for the annual Headless Horseless Pumpkin Ride. The ride officially began shortly after 7 p.m., but participants and spectators arrived at Java Hut around 6:30 p.m. to socialize. This year’s Pumpkin Ride saw an impressive turnout of approximately 300 riders, showcasing the growing popularity of this community event.
After congregating around Java Hut, participants rode through Fairfax to Glen Drive, ascended the Loma Alta Fire Road, and then made their way to the 680 Trail before riding down onto Butterfield and returning to Fairfax. The ride features a mix of fire roads, single tracks, and switchbacks, making it an enjoyable experience for all.
Archie Williams junior Aidan Bennett noted an increase in participation during the Pumpkin Ride.
“This was my fourth Pumpkin Ride. This is the most people I’ve ever seen; I’d say [the number of participants] grows exponentially every year,” Aidan said. “My dad is here too but I’m going to ride with some friends from school.”
Fairfax resident Windy Riemer, attending her third Pumpkin Ride, also noticed that this was the largest turnout yet for the event.
“This is my third Pumpkin Ride. I think this is the most [people] I have ever seen,” Riemer said. “Last year was pretty busy, but this is definitely the most [people].”
Participants of all ages took part in the challenging ride, including several Archie Williams students.
“My favorite part [of the ride] is seeing all the kids on bikes. It brings back a lot of nostalgia, and it’s nice to see kids with the same interests as me,” Aidan said.
Several students attended the Pumpkin Ride with their families. Junior Leo Spampanato and his father, David Spampanato, participated in their first Pumpkin Ride on Wednesday.
“I’m with my son and some friends,” Spampanato said. “I think the turnout is pretty good. It’s a perfect amount of people, [more people] would be too much.”
A Pumpkin Ride tradition involves participants decorating plastic pumpkins with lights and strapping them to their helmets. Intended to give riders the appearance of the Headless Horsemen, this playful element also makes them more distinguishable in the dark as they navigate through various trails in Fairfax.
“To prepare for the event, I put a plastic pumpkin on top of my helmet,” Spampanato said. “[I am most excited for] getting up to the top and completing the ride.”
Before returning to Fairfax, many riders stop at a knoll south of the 680 Trail Crest to hydrate and enjoy the scenic view. Cyclists anticipate the next Headless Horseless Pumpkin Ride, which will occur Oct. 30, 2025.
