Local pumpkin patches are open for the season from mid-September through Halloween. Follow these tips to have the best experience at the patch.
- Use our Pumpkin Patch Guide to get the inside scoop on all the local patches. Use our tips to choose the best patches to visit this season.
- Dress for the weather. Remember sunscreen, bug spray, and appropriate layers. Later in the season, it may be chilly early or late in the day but may warm up as the sun shines in the afternoon.
- Wear comfy shoes for playing on a farm. Tennis shoes, rubber boots, or farm boots work well.
- Come rested. Plan your visit around nap times.
- Plan to spend a half to a full day. Weekdays are less crowded and more relaxed, making this the ideal time to visit with young children. Weekends are bustling and can be an extra special time to visit with friends and relatives. Bring grandparents along for the fun!
- Check the patch’s calendar of activities featured in our Pumpkin Patch Guide for special events they may be hosting throughout the season, including live entertainment, special festivals or holiday-themed events for Grandparents Day, teacher appreciation, Halloween, and more.
- If you have a favorite attraction, for instance, the jumping pillow, plan to hit it up first or last to make the start and end of your visit extra special.
- Buy some goodies to enjoy at home! Cider donuts, pumpkin donuts, and kettle corn are all great snacks to enjoy with a relaxing movie after a day at the patch.
- Decide in advance whether you want to choose one big pumpkin for the family or a small one for each child. Having a plan can save a lot of stress when everyone is drawn to their choice of a “perfect pumpkin.”
- Take lots of pumpkin photos!