Several readers and friends have asked me where I recommend going to pick pumpkins.
The truth is, I don't have a farm that I love. All I've visited are too crowded and pushy with extra purchases and sugary sweets. I wish I could find somewhere reminiscent of my childhood where the focus was on the pumpkin picking, not the extraneous stuff.
Here are five choices:
1) CRC Pumpkin Patch - The Clintonville Community Resource Center hosts a fall festival every year where families can receive a local pumpkin for a three-can donation to the food pantry. They have fall themed snacks and entertainment available too. 14 West Lakeview Columbus OH 43202
2) Circle S - This if the farm we usually hit up with a playgroup. Circle S has the hay barn, the snacks, the petting zoo, and hayrides to the field to pick your pumpkin. It is rather crowded on the weekends, expensive, and offers foreign cider, but those looking for agri-tainment will be pleased with Circle S. 9015 London Groveport Rd. Grove City, OH 43123
3) Pigeon Roost Farm - We happened upon Pigeon Roost one day after a fall hike. It is picturesque and offers a playground, pumpkin displays, and petting zoo among other activities. I've heard it gets extremely crowded on weekends. 4413 National Rd SW Hebron OH
4) Jacquemin Farms - We stopped at Jacquemin once before pumpkin season. It is well thought out and small, which might limit crowds. Read CbusMom's review of their pumpkin offerings. 7437 Hyland Croy Rd. Plain City, OH 43064
5) Circleville Pumpkin Show - This is the big one, a huge street fair with pumpkin growing contests, displays, crafts, food, entertainment and more. I remember going as a kid and being overwhelmed by the crowds. The Circleville Pumpkin show website lists all the fun available today and tomorrow from 10 am -10 pm. 159 East Franklin Street Circleville, Ohio 43113
Where are you going this year?
PS. Wherever you find your pumpkins, don't forget to roast the seeds!