History

Papa's Pumpkin Patch began in 1983 as a "Happy Accident" filled with "Win-Win" partnerships and attractions.

We were first asked to plant pumpkins for a friend who wanted color for a parade float. We planted a few pumpkin seeds, and it wasn't a good season-- too wet and too cool. We had hundreds of "green'' pumpkins for the parade, not near enough orange for our friend's request.

So, we invited local grade school teachers to bring their classes to the "Patch." We hauled the few orange pumpkins into the yard and decided it would be extra special if each child could take one home. Since then, we've grown from one class of 20 children to over 4,500 pre-schoolers and elementary students visiting the Patch each season.

In 1989, we opened the Patch to the public and today our season runs from mid-September to mid-October. In addition, we open each year as part of the citywide FolkFest celebration. This year will bring an estimated 25-30,000 pumpkins, gourds, decorative corn and related harvest items to our yard and close to 50,000 people in the month-long season.

In addition to all the "produce" more then 25 activities have been built and added for "Children of all ages" to enjoy. This makes an excellent outing for the entire family.

Wonderful partnerships have been formed between church youth groups, community non-profit organizations, neighbors and friends to cause this community celebration to happen.

It's become "one Happy accident after another," and, it's all worth it to us!