With autumn in full swing and the Halloween excitement brewing, Southern California opens up its farms for a cherished seasonal tradition – pumpkin picking! Here we round up the eight absolute best pumpkin patches you won’t want to miss in 2024. Whether you’re in for the hayrides, corn mazes, or just looking for that perfect gourd to carve, these spots offer the best pumpkin patch experiences in the region.

1. Tanaka Farms – Irvine

A staple in Irvine, Tanaka Farms boasts a wagon tour across its 30-acre farm, a U-Pick Pumpkin with pumpkins still on the vines, and a Fall Harvest Festival that includes activities such as a corn maze and petting zoo.

2. Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Festival – Pomona

This educational patch is run by students and features an impressive variety of pumpkins. The festival includes a pumpkin village, games, and even an insect fair.

3. Underwood Family Farms – Moorpark

Known for their Fall Harvest Festival, Underwood Family Farms offers more than just pumpkins. With themed weekends, live entertainment, and countless photo opportunities among the patch’s quirky scarecrows and vast sunflower fields, it’s a full day out with family.

4. Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Farm – Redlands

Offering perhaps the most picturesque setting of all with mountains around, Live Oak Canyon provides an extensive selection of pumpkins, carnival games, a corn maze designed to be challenging yet fun for all ages.

5. Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch – Culver City

If you’re looking for Instagram-worthy moments, Mr. Bones is your go-to with its iconic pumpkin houses and spooky decorations. This spot gets bonus points for its celebrity sightings and unique events like dog costume parades.

 6Bates Nut Farm – Valley Center

Set against the backdrop of picturesque woods, Bates Nut Farm doesn’t only offer pumpkins but also a variety of other fall activities including hayrides, pony rides, and a straw maze.

7. Shawn’s Pumpkin Patch – Multiple Locations

With locations in Los Angeles and Sant Monica, Shawn’s is ideal for urban dwellers eager to get into the autumnal spirit without going too far from home. Their petting zoo and face painting are hits among kids.

8. Riley’s Farm – Oak Glen

Last but not least, Riley’s Farm offers an apple orchard alongside its pumpkin patch where guests can enjoy u-pick apples as well as colonial-themed activities rewriting history while gathering pumpkins.

In 2024, as you celebrate the season in Southern California amidst the dried leaves and cool breeze don’t forget to make memories at one of these festive pumpkin patches that are guaranteed to get you in the fall spirit!