Pumpkin patches still persist in the presence of the pandemic! They’re great for autumn photographs of the kids and family, perfect for a short family outing, and a sweet way to start celebrating the holiday season.
As with all activities, please contact the vendor before attending to ensure they are open and to review Covid-19 precautions and guidelines to follow.
Local favorite Webb Ranch, grows organic pumpkins on-site in Portola Valley, just off 280. Open seven days a week, activities are only on the weekends, but they include hay and train rides, a corn maze, and petting and reptile zoos. Free entrance; activities require tickets purchased before arrival (see website). Organic produce for sale.
For a pumpkin patch closer to the ocean, try Farmer John’s, a working farm in Half Moon Bay. With a large variety of home-grown pumpkins, there are many photo op spots and even more opportunities for family memories to be made. And it’s dog friendly!
Also on the coast, Arata’s Pumpkin Farm, in Half Moon Bay, offers numerous activities, including a pumpkin river, cornfield, playground, haunted barn, hayrides, picnic area, train ride, and a petting zoo. The highlight: the world-renowned, and highly challenging, two-acer Minotaur’s Labyrinth Hay Maze.
Queen’s Pumpkin Patch in Saratoga is an old fashion, urban farm, fall treat. Main activities include a giant pumpkin slingshot (!!), cow train, pumpkin painting, petting zoo, and fall foodie favorites. Get out your cameras!
ABC Tree Farms is a pumpkin patch retail firm with multiple locations in the Bay Area. It’s offering limited activities this year, but holiday photo-op spots are still available.
Other locations:
In the city, you’ll find a quaint pumpkin patch at Bay Natives’ local plant nursery. Located at the end of Cesar Chavez at India Basin, stop by for a quick autumn experience and to say bonjour to their goats and chickens!
Although Gamble Gardens in Palo Alto isn’t holding a pumpkin patch this year, they are offering a unique Zoom experience of decorating pumpkins with henna. Sign up quickly, as class happens on Saturday, October 24, 10-11 am. Pumpkin and henna are included in the $40 registration fee (only for pickup, delivery not available).
While not technically a pumpkin patch, Los Altos High School student athletes (address: 201 Almond Ave., Los Altos, CA) are hosting a pumpkin sale to benefit their programs. Located in the student parking lot, they’re open from 2-6 M-F and 10-6 weekends, until October 30, 2020. It’s a chance to purchase a pumpkin and support the students at the same time.
Happy pumpkin picking to everyone!
Merci Lynn Auslander
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