THE PATCHES ARE FILLED WITH AUTUMN FUN

Got any plans during this spooktacular Halloween Season?

It’s that time of year again, when the weather is starting to get colder and sunny days are few and far between.

Thankfully, in our metro area there are several autumn activities to keep anyone, at any age, amused. Whether it’s Oktoberfest, a haunted house, dressing up in your favorite costume, or just enjoying the changing colors of the great landscape Oregon has to offer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Pumpkin Patches and corn mazes are also a great pastime for friends and family to enjoy. There are several places listed online and you can often spot a sign for the local pumpkin patch among many back roads in rural areas.  

As an example, Liepold Farms in Boring, Fazio Farms in northeast Portland, and the well-known Original Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island, northwest of Portland, all have pumpkin patches, as well as corn mazes and local produce to offer the general public.

Other places, including Dollan Creek Farms in Boring and Mr. Tree’s Pumpkin Patch in Gresham, do not have a corn maze but do have hay rides, pumpkins and entertainment that many visitors can appreciate. Of course we can’t forget Bella Organic Farm, which is also on Sauvie Island. They offer an “Equality: The Time is Now”-themed corn maze, a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo and several other activities.

While visiting a local farm like Bella Organic or the Original Pumpkin patch, do be aware that they often charge an entrance or parking fee, and also have certain prices to enter the corn mazes, hayrides, games etc. Don’t forget to prepare yourself and check the company websites where you would like to visit.

The rain here lately has also made things pretty soggy and boots are recommended at most places, along with wearing clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Sauvie Island’s Original Pumpkin Patch even closed on a recent Wednesday due to the bad conditions, so keep in mind and double-check if places are open before visiting.

Each location has its own personal history. Many have been family owned for decades and one can sense a connection to the local community. When you visit a local pumpkin patch, you are supporting a local business and the local employees that are hired.

Be sure to visit these locations soon so you don’t miss out. Most festivities are only open until Halloween, or through the following weekend, and that’s less than a week away. Check out your local patch with a good pair of rain boots, have fun tramping through the mud of a corn maze, and pick a farm-grown pumpkin. Maybe you can find yourself lucky enough to indulge in a delicious hot cup of apple cider, or conversing during a hayride with loved ones.

Whatever you fancy, you are sure to find what you are looking for in Portland or its surrounding area.