During the fall season, especially around Halloween and Thanksgiving, pumpkin patches become popular destinations for people to visit. Visitors pick their own pumpkins, carve them into jack-o’-lanterns and take fall themed pictures. Many pumpkin patches also offer additional activities such as hayrides, corn mazes and other family friendly events. 

River View Veggie Pumpkin Patch, Sunflowers and Corn Maze located in Faribault is best known for its great prices and their family friendly corn maze. Senior Aspen Rodriguez said, “ It is a family tradition to go to River View Veggie Pumpkin Patch every fall.”  The vibrance and cheerfulness of the sunflower patch contributes to making this destination such an aesthetically pleasing location.

Apple orchards are also a big part of fall traditions. Families love to visit these orchards to pick apples. Senior Istahil Hassan said, “I take the best fall pictures at apple orchards.” Many orchards also offer fun things to do like hayrides, corn mazes and petting zoos.

Trumps Orchard, located in Faribault, is a family run business that started when Herman and Eileen Trump bought a few acres of apple trees that blossomed into the beautiful orchard that it is known as today. The orchard has been run by the family for four generations. They also offer pumpkins, pears, plums, jam, grapes and homemade pies. Trumps Orchard is open August-December. 

Whether young or old, apple orchards and pumpkin patches offer a quintessentially fall experience filled with activities like picking apples, enjoying hayrides and savoring fresh cider. Sophomore Raqiya Yussuf said, “Apple orchards and pumpkin patches add to the fall vibe.” These activities bring people together to enjoy the beauty of fall.