Temperatures are starting to cool down, school is in session and the countdown to all of the autumn and winter holidays has begun. All around the Rio Grande Valley, churches, schools, and other organizations are gearing up for fall and hosting pumpkin patches. These events make a great experience for kids, and provide a great backdrop for fall photos and oftentimes have other activities you and your little ones can participate in. Here is a list of pumpkin patches opening all across the Rio Grande Valley this season:
First United Methodist Church of Brownsville — 1225 Boca Chica Blvd., Brownsville, TX: Join the members of the FUMC in Brownsville for their annual Pumpkin Patch from Oct. 13 through Oct. 31 benefiting the Good Neighbors Settlement House. The pumpkins come from a Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico and prices vary, but picture taking is free. Day cares and preschools can call ahead and schedule story time and a fun pumpkin science experiment.
First United Methodist Church of Harlingen — 321 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen, TX
The FUMC in Harlingen will be opening their pumpkin patch from Oct. 12 through Oct. 31. Stop by to enjoy pumpkins of all colors and sizes and take some amazing fall photos. School groups can schedule story and activity time at the pumpkin patch, as well.
Donna’s Corn Maze — 807 N. Valley View Road, Donna, TX
Corn maze organizers plan to open the first Friday in October and will be open every weekend in October. Expect a full-sized and a mini-corn maze for the little ones. In addition to the maze, organizers offer tractor rides, hay rides, and barrel train rides. The pillow jump and pedal karts and adventure barn are sure to keep your family entertained. All the attractions are included in the entry fee of $10 per person. You can get more information by calling (956) 239-4504.
First United Methodist Church of Edinburg — 3707 W. University Drive, Edinburg, TX
There is normally a large number of pumpkins on display and available for purchase at the beginning of October. For current information, please call (956) 381-9806.
Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch — 6712 N. Bentsen Road, McAllen, TX
An awesome red barn makes Maddie’s Pumpkin Patch a picture perfect location to visit this fall. The location is open every day starting in October through the day before Thanksgiving. This 5-acre farm in McAllen has it all, from hay rides to a petting zoo. Get a perfect fall family picture in the pumpkin patch, then enjoy the little corn maze and other games. The cost will be $5 per person or $20 for a car-load. For more information, call (956) 457-3035.
St. Mark United Methodist Church — 301 Pecan Blvd., McAllen, TX
St. Mark’s will have a huge selection of pumpkins for a wonderful photo background for local families along with other activities during the month of October. Call (956) 682-1481 for the most updated information.
