There are so many fun things to do with the kids in the Fall. When October begins, that's when our family heads to the pumpkin patch. I prefer to go earlier in the season when there's plenty of pumpkins and the crowds aren't too big. This year we selected Tanaka Farms in Irvine, California. Here are some of my tips for visiting the pumpkin patch with kids this Fall.

PLAN AHEAD.

Checkout the website for the pumpkin patch you're planning to head out to. Tanaka Farms has two: Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch and Hana Fields Pumpkin Patch. Due to CoVID restrictions they are requiring reservations ahead of time for weekend visitors, so you'll want to reserve your spot, purchase parking and tickets for your visit.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY.

Check the weather app on your phone to see if it's going to be hot or cold, and plan accordingly. After looking at the weather app, we decided to arrive in the morning to avoid the crazy heat (it was supposed to be in the mid-90's, which is pretty hot for Orange County). The pumpkin patch is typically on a farm, so you'll get dirty. I wore sandals because I figured I would wipe/wash my feet, but the kids wore tennis shoes.

BRING BEVERAGES/SNACKS/FOOD and SANITIZER. 

If you want to save money, bring your own beverages, snacks and food. The lines were not too long, but of course, like anything, eating out is always more costly especially for a family. In addition, there were not a lot of food options (my husband is vegetarian). Fortunately we did have a cooler of water and some light snacks.

We were on a farm so they had nice "port-a-potties" and sink stations, but they are not located everywhere. The lines can get pretty long, so have a back-up method to clean hands.

GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME.

This is one of the best times of the year to get amazing Fall photos of the family. Allow plenty of time for photos on the pumpkin patch (which is huge)! There's lot of other things to do as well. Tanaka Farms Offers:

  • Unlimited wagon rides
  • Tanaka Grill
  • Straw Bale Maze
  • Pumpkin Cannon
  • Barnyard educational exhibit
  • Produce Market Stand

Source: Tanaka Farms Website

I hope these TIPS are helpful to you and that you enjoy this Fall at the Pumpkin Patch with your family!!

~Tina