Pumpkin patches are a staple in beloved fall outdoor activities. People travel from miles around to visit local farms and find the “perfect” pumpkin.
Whether used for food favorites, harvest-themed décor or transformed into a spooky jack-o’-lantern, pumpkins are a hallmark for a variety of traditions.
As the first day of fall approaches, local farms are preparing to open their locations. Here’s where to pick your pumpkins and enjoy family-friendly entertainment in the greater Salina area:
Sunny Side Pumpkin Patch
Known for its wide variety of pumpkins, Sunny Side Pumpkin Patch is located at 11500 South Hopkins Road, a few miles outside Assaria.
Owner and jack of all trades Grant Nurnberg said he is excited about the upcoming season. He designs the corn maze, farms the crop, cleans the facility and works to ensure happiness and satisfaction among visitors.
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“We have people come from everywhere,” Nurnberg said. “I’ve think seen (license plate) tags from just about every state, and that’s so nice,”
The you-pick pumpkin patch and farm is in its 21st season of operation, offering everything from small gourds, to white pumpkins, to pumpkins surpassing 100 pounds.
Popular fall festival activities beyond the pumpkin patch include two corn mazes, a jump pad, hayrack rides, slides, peddle carts, a petting zoo, a giant slingshot that can shoot pumpkins up to 500 feet, and a plethora of games in the activity area.
Children and parents can also make use of vintage red wagons to haul pumpkins – or small children – across the farm.
Two large Belgian horses, will pull the hayrack ride this year. This attraction will be from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday only.
Groups can make special reservations for