October is well under way, and with it comes one of the most exciting times of year, with costumes, bonfires and an excuse to get plenty of sweet treats in the house.
Trick’o’treating and scary films are all essential parts of the Halloween season, alongside pumpkin carving.For both kids and their parents, making a carved pumpkin to illuminate the doorstep is a key Halloween tradition, and it actually has some Irish roots.
The tradition began in Ireland centuries ago as a way to ward off evil spirits during the festival of Samhain, but instead of pumpkins, which were not readily available in Ireland, people used turnips.
When the tradition was brought to America through immigration, people began using pumpkins which were both easier to get and easier to carve, and pumpkins became the preferred carving medium.
Across Cork there are pumpkin picking patches preparing for their busiest season. It is a wonderful day out for the whole family, as you can enjoy some autumnal fun while selecting your perfect pumpkin to take home.
It’s also a lovely opportunity for some family snapshots thanks to the Halloween vibes that a pumpkin field evokes.
Pumpkin patches usually work with a booking schedule, so check out these patches across Cork and get booked in for some seasonal fun:
The Farm, Grenagh
The Farm at Grenagh, Co. Cork has plenty of availability left throughout October. Not only can you select the pumpkin of your choice, there are also plenty of extra activities for the kids.
It is opening from Sunday the 12th of October. There is also the lovely Haystack Restaurant on site, so you can end your trip with a family meal.
visitthefarm.ie
Joe’s Farm Pumpkin Patch
This patch in Killeagh, East Cork is open on weekends beginning on October 5th.As this is a working farm, access to the pumpkin field is not suitable for buggies, but babies under 12 months can attend for free when carried in a sling. There are different ticket prices for ‘pickers’ and ‘non pickers,’ with a picker being a child or adult who collects vegetables around the farm and gets a pumpkin at the end, and a non-picker who visits the farm but does not partake in vegetable picking or receive a pumpkin. Pre-booking is essential with tickets for pickers €22 and €10 for non-pickers. Be prepared to get muddy and enjoy the experience!
Ovens Pumpkin Patch
Located at Ovens Christmas Tree Farm, Ovens Pumpkin Patch in Cork transforms the farm into a rustic autumn trail every weekend in October. Families can stroll through the fields, pick their own pumpkins, and enjoy the festive atmosphere with plenty of photo opportunities. There are hot drinks and sweet treats available to keep any coldness at bay, and it is a great day out for children and adults. Open during weekends in October, it is close to Cork City and easy to reach. Admission is €15.60 to take home a pumpkin, or €10.40 just for entry without pumpkin.
pumpkinpatchcork.ie
Field of Dreams Pick a Pumpkin Harvest Festival
This community pumpkin patch is in aid of Down Syndrome Cork. It takes place on Sunday, October 5th and Sunday, October 12th from 10:00am to 3:30pm each day. Tickets are €20 for entry and one pumpkin, or €5 just for entry. You can also nab a family ticket for four people and one pumpkin for €32.50. Children under two go free.Their spooky pumpkin trail includes crafts, photo booths and a haunted cabin, and can visit the Pumpkin Café offering seasonal treats and drinks.Tickets must be booked via Eventbrite.
eventbrite.ie
Ballinadee Bus & Rescue Farm Pumpkin Patch
Taking place in Ballinadee, West Cork, this annual pumpkin patch is a sure fire way to enjoy autumn experience for all ages. Set in the peaceful countryside, visitors can pick their own pumpkins, meet the farm’s rescue animals, stroll along the walkway, and enjoy a ride on the spooky bus. Their coffee truck will also be on-site serving delicious coffee and local sweet treats for when you are peckish. It is open on weekends and other selected days through October, check out their booking page for availability. Adult tickets are €15, while kids are €12, with a variety of family ticket options available.
ballinadeebus.com
Leahy’s Farm
Leahy’s Open Farm is hosting a “Boo” Halloween event from October 25th to 31st, ideal to mark the midterm off school. Located in Midleton, Co. Cork entry includes full access to the farm and a haunted trailer ride through the spooky forest. There are also pumpkin carving sessions for an additional fee, and the option to create a spooky chocolate lollipop. Tickets cost €22.50 for adults, teenagers and children for non-members; while members pay €10 for the same.There’s an on-site café offering home baking, sandwiches, burgers, wraps, plus a gift shop on site. Costumes are welcome, though warm clothing is recommended since much of the experience is outdoors.
eahysopenfarm.ie/boo-event/
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