Pumpkin Picking

Pumpkin picking is a popular fall activity that allows families to explore acres of fields filled with pumpkins. It's a fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors, and many pumpkin patches offer a variety of pumpkin sizes and shapes to choose from. Some pumpkin patches also offer wagon or tractor rides to transport visitors to the fields. Once you find the absolute right pumpkin, you can cut it off the vine and take it home to carve or decorate.

Explore for the Best Maple Grade Syrups 

When you visit your local pumpkin patch, take some time to explore the delicious selection of maple-grade syrups. Maple grades are made of two components, color and flavor, and the flavor corresponds with the color. The darker the syrup, the stronger the maple flavor. For a syrup to make the grade, it must fall within the color range for that grade and have the proper flavor to match. Golden syrup must be light in color and have delicate flavor of maple. In cases where the flavor and color don't match, the grade goes to the flavor or color that is darkest or strongest. For example, a syrup that has Golden color but a Dark flavor can't be labeled as Golden, rather it is labeled as the Dark. (1)

Corn Mazes

Corn mazes are another fun and challenging activity for families to enjoy. These mazes are created by cutting a design into a field of corn stalks, and visitors must navigate the maze to find the exit. Some corn mazes are designed to be educational, with clues or trivia questions to answer along the way. Corn mazes can be a great way to spend time outdoors while getting some exercise and bonding as a family. 

Hayrides

Hayrides are a classic fall activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Visitors can sit on a wagon filled with hay bales and ride through the pumpkin patch or corn maze, taking in the sights and sounds of fall. Some hayrides offer hot cider or cocoa to warm you on chilly fall days. This activity is a great way to slow down and enjoy the scenery.

Petting Zoos

Many pumpkin patches and fall festivals have petting zoos where families can interact with farm animals. From goats and sheep to rabbits and chickens, these zoos offer a hands-on experience that's both fun and educational for children. Petting zoos provide a unique opportunity for children to learn about different animals and how they are cared for on a farm.

Apple Picking

While not all pumpkin patches offer apple picking, it's a popular fall activity that can be enjoyed at many orchards. Families can wander through rows of apple trees, picking their apples to take home and bake into pies, make into applesauce, or enjoy them as a healthy snack. Apple picking is a fun way to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful fall scenery while enjoying a delicious and healthy treat. 

Pumpkin Decorating

Once you've found the perfect pumpkin, it's time to decorate it! Many pumpkin patches offer a variety of decorating supplies, such as paint, markers, and stickers. This fun and creative activity allows children to express their artistic side. Pumpkin decorating is a great way to bond as a family and create lasting memories. 

Fall Festivals

Fall festivals are a great way to experience the season's festivities. These festivals often include live music, food vendors, and a variety of activities for families. Some festivals even have pumpkin chucking contests, where participants try throwing pumpkins as far as possible. Fall festivals can be a fun way to spend an entire day with the family.

Scarecrow Making

Making a scarecrow is a classic fall activity that families can enjoy. Many pumpkin patches offer supplies and instructions to create your scarecrow. Once you've finished, you can take your scarecrow home to decorate your yard for the season. Scarecrow-making is a fun and creative activity that allows families to work together to create something unique and fun.

Bounce Houses and Inflatables

While not necessarily a traditional fall activity, bounce houses and inflatables are often found at pumpkin patches and fall festivals. These attractions allow children to burn off some energy and have fun jumping and bouncing around. Bounce houses and inflatables can be a great way to keep children entertained while enabling parents to relax and enjoy the fall weather.

Fall Photo Ops

Last but not least, fall offers many opportunities for family photos. From posing with pumpkins to jumping in leaf piles, the season provides a beautiful backdrop for capturing memories that will last a lifetime. Many pumpkin patches have designated photo areas with props and backdrops to make your photos even more special.

Fall décor

Pumpkin patches often offer a variety of fall decorations for families to purchase, including gourds, pumpkins of all sizes, corn stalks, and hay bales. These decorations can be used to create a festive fall display at home.

Food and drinks

Some pumpkin patches offer food and drink options like hot apple cider, pumpkin pie, and other fall treats like Vermont maple syrup. These snacks can be enjoyed while taking a break from activities and soaking in the fall atmosphere.

Face painting 

Many pumpkin patches offer additional activities to entertain kids, such as face painting, pony rides, and other entertainment. These activities are often designed to be fun and interactive, providing a memorable experience for the whole family.

Bonfires

 Some pumpkin patches offer bonfires for families to enjoy, providing a cozy and warm way to end a day of fall activities. Roasting marshmallows and enjoying the warm company of loved ones around a bonfire is a quintessential fall experience.