Pumpkin farm turned into a haven for Halloween

An enterprising Galway couple are turning their farm into a Halloween haven for youngsters – by getting their Pumpkin Patch ready for another busy season!

Galway Pumpkin Patch – the first of its kind in the West – proved a big hit with the public last year . . . and it is now set to open for its second season this Halloween.

The Pumpkin patch, which is operated by Caroline Whelan and her husband Gerry Quinn in Ardrahan, opens on six dates later this month.

Adults and children can come along for a Halloween-themed day-out, which includes much more than just pumpkin picking. There is fancy dress, Halloween themed games, farm animals on site, and lots more.

The Patch is located on Caroline’s family farm at Castletaylor Demesne in Ardrahan, and she is really looking forward to the event.

“Last year we were procrastinating about opening the Pumpkin Patch – we could see they were so big in the States, and Halloween was getting a lot more popular here, but we thought maybe we were a bit far of the beaten track and needed to be nearer the city,” she said.

“However I think the fact we are quite rural is all part of the allure – it is an excursion for families to come and visit us.

“People are enthralled by the space available for the kids to run around. We have customers come from all over the country, and are so grateful to everyone who takes the time out to visit us,” she added.

The Ardrahan woman believes that we are all now living such fast-paced lives, the Pumpkin Patch is a bit of a reprieve for a few hours.

“I always say what we are offering families is a very simple, rustic, outdoor experience,” said Caroline.

“There are no bouncy castles or computer games – its simple fun – farm animals on show, lots of amusing decor and picture opportunities, old Halloween games like Snap the Apple and Toss the Beanbag through the pumpkin.

“There is so much stimulation for children nowadays – sometimes it’s nice to pare it back to basics.”

She also thinks that people like the idea of authenticity.

“My husband, who works full-time in his father’s Fruit and Vegetable business, trades at a number of Farmers Markets weekly – they have got so popular; people love to come for their home grown veg. Now they are being offered a home grown pumpkin,” she said.

“We are not one of the big supermarket chains – people can follow us on social media and see Gerry takes great pride in his crop. Our pumpkins are grown and harvested with love.”

Castletaylor is a working farm and the animals proved a huge hit with the kids.

“Last year we showcased our vintage tractor, along with some sheep, goats and a Shetland pony,” continued Caroline.

“This year we are hoping to add a rabbit or two to the mix! We also have two special guests who make random appearances – a pair of Alpacas!

“When you grow up on a farm, you forget yourself how much of a novelty that animals are to other children who don’t. We are really looking forward to the events and all we are crossing our fingers for now is for the rain to stop and a bit of fine weather to come our way!”

Galway Pumpkin Patch will open this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 18, 19 and 20 – and again the following Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.

Tickets must be booked in advance at galwaypumpkinpatch.ie