Pretty Pumpkin Patches

Come October and every parent will be scurrying to get their kids their Halloween outfits, go trick or treating and even visit a nearby pumpkin patch. Many spring up during this time and all look very festive with pumpkins adored in every nook and corner.

When my son was a year old, I was on the lookout for a pumpkin patch. Of all, Lemos Farm in Half Moon Bay, Ca & Uesugi Farms in Morgan Hill, Ca are still my two favorite places.




Lemos Farm had a petting zoo, a hay ride that took the excited little toddlers for a good 20 min ride through the pumpkin patches. The entire setup with the choo choo train that enthralls a kid of any age is a must. This is a popular place for kids specially toddlers specially during halloween. The route from 280 to half Moon Bay can get pretty crowded and traffic jams lasting even upto 1 1\2 hr can occur. So plan your day accordingly. There is ample parking behind the farm. With cars pulling in and out of the parking lot, be prepared for a dusty setting.

Opposite Lemos Farm, we entered into another patch which had different colored squashes ranging from the littlest to the largest. This setting of pumpkins\ squashes lined so meticulously in the field made for some great portrait pictures.

The famous Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival takes place during this time too. Crowds throng the area to see Farmer Mike carve the pumpkins. Save the date for the 2012 Festival. Click here for more details. http://www.miramarevents.com/pumpkinfest/about_show.html

Uesugi Farm:
This is yet another favorite. The entrance itself is a brilliant idea. You will pass through a corn field where the stalks are more than 10 ft in height. The parking is within the park as is very organised. The entrance will take your breath away. Marigolds in plenty with massive extra large sunflowers beaming in the sun with bees humming around and a walk through corn plantation small enough for young kids yet fascinating for the young minds.

The hayride seen above is a must. You will be pleasantly surprised. Its a hit with the kids. You will pass through the corn field, butterfly and marigold field. 

 

The weather in October is usually pleasant however out in the field it can get pretty hot. Drink lots of water and keep yourself hydrated. The pass for the rides doesn't include all of the attractions. You may have to purchase it separately. Live music, petting zoo, pony ride and the cow train will keep your kids entertained.

If you are going:
Lemos Farm is located at 12320 San Mateo Road ( Highway 92 ) Half Moon Bay, Ca
Uesugi Farms is located at  14485 Monterey Rd, San Martin, Ca 95046