The leaves are falling and the nights are getting colder. You can’t ignore the fact that summer is ending. But don’t dread the arrival of autumn. It brings with it one of my favourite holidays, Halloween, and the return of one of the South West’s most loved seasonal traditions: the Avon Valley Pumpkin Patch.
This year, the experience is being split into two events: family-friendly Pumpkin Patch Days and the more atmospheric Pumpkin Patch Nights. So after a crisp autumn day hunting down the perfect pumpkin, soak up the twinkling magic of the patch after dark from the last weekend of September to throughout October.
Pumpkin Patch Days:
Avon Valley Pumpkin Patch opens on Saturday, September 27, with its authentic ‘pick your own’ patch bursting with thousands of pumpkins in every colour, shape and size imaginable. The dog-friendly experience invites you to fill up a wheelbarrow with everything from towering orange giants to tiny gourds that fit in the palm!
Pumpkin picking is only the beginning, however, with the patch buzzing with seasonal entertainment. There’ll be roaming characters and fiery performances, as well as quirky autumn games like apple cannons, pumpkin paintball and slingshots. Plus, a pop-up pub, The Pumpkin & Firkin, serving warming drinks and seasonal treats!
Pumpkin Patch Nights:
When the sun goes down, from Friday, October 3, the pumpkin patch transforms into a glowing wonderland of fairy lights, lanterns and illuminated pumpkins. With cosy corners, Instagram-worthy backdrops, and an autumnal atmosphere, enjoy the sounds of live music and a feast of local street food at Avon Valley’s Pumpkin Patch Nights.
“Our Pumpkin Patch has really grown into a much-loved part of autumn here in the South West, and we love seeing people return year after year,” said Doug Douglas, owner of Avon Valley Adventure Park. “Whether it’s families enjoying the daytime buzz, friends soaking up the atmosphere after dark, or couples looking for the perfect date night, the patch has a way of bringing people together to create special memories.”
What else is happening at Avon Valley this Halloween?
For those who like their October a little scarier, Avon Valley Adventure Park is also home to the multi-award-winning FEAR Scream Park this Halloween. From October 10, expect a thrill of scare mazes and terrifying experiences to test Bristol’s bravest—including an intimate yet creepy ‘Exorcism’!
To learn more about Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park head here.