Story by LIZZY CISNEROS Photos by JA’HAILEY VAZQUEZ
Tiger Media Network
Fall is here, and that means pumpkins, hayrides, and plenty of fun at Pa’s Pumpkin Patch. The patch opened for the season on Saturday, September 17, and families from all over town showed up to kick things off.
Pa’s Pumpkin Patch isn’t just about picking out the perfect pumpkin. There’s a corn maze, hay bales to climb, wagon and train rides, a giant jumping pillow, and even alpacas, donkeys, and goats.
Brett Denham, one of the employees, explained why Pa’s Pumpkin Patch was started in the first place, saying owner Jeff Copper – known as “Pa” – was thinking of his family and the community.
“Jeff has tons of grandchildren, so he opened Pa’s Pumpkin Patch for two big reasons,” Denham said. “He opened it thinking of his grandchildren… but also Jeff is greatly involved in the community and loves to see people enjoying something he is a part of.”
Every year, the patch tries to add something new.
“Our next project…we are wanting to add a 20–30 ft slide,” Denham said. “Everything is all in order to get that done.”
The patch is open for five weeks in the fall, ending the weekend before Halloween. This year, there’s also a special event: “Fiddle Fest” on Saturday, October 18. Starting at 11:00 a.m., Hays Middle School orchestra and band students will perform under a big tent, with new groups playing each hour. To top it off, PFONZ catering will be serving food.
When asked what makes the job worth it, Denham said nobody is ever mad or having a bad time at the pumpkin patch.
“Everyone is just really happy to be here and have a good time and that is exactly what we want—we want to bring joy to the community and joy to kids,” he said. “We also host surrounding schools’ field trips during the week so that is another fun way to get many people involved.”
Pa’s Pumpkin Patch Hours
- Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
- Sundays: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
More updates and announcements can be found on their Facebook page, Pa’s Pumpkin Patch.