With summer now seeming like a distant memory, fall is rolling in faster than a candy apple tumbling down a steep hill. But as the trees transition to their picture-perfect autumnal hues of orange and scarlet, it’s time to slip on a layer of fleece and embrace the season at one of Metro Vancouver’s most popular October attractions.

A local legend that’s been running since the early 1980s, the Pumpkin Patch at Richmond Country Farms lures fall fans from across Metro Vancouver and beyond. But if you haven’t been before—or you’re wondering what’s on at the farm this year—here’s the lowdown on why you should gather the family together and head on over.

Close-up of a large pumpkin with the pumpkin patch at Richmond Country Farms in the background
The Pumpkin Patch is a popular seasonal attraction. | Photo: Richmond Country Farms

Where and when is it?

Richmond Country Farms is located in East Richmond (12900 Steveston Highway) and it’s easily reached by car (there is plenty of free parking). Buses also stop right outside­­—you can plan your visit via the TransLink website.

This year’s Pumpkin Patch operates between October 5 and October 31, from 10:00am to 4:30pm daily, including weekends and holidays. 

Two women walk through the Pumpkin Patch at Richmond Country Farms
Pick the perfect pumpkin at Richmond Country Farms. | Photo: Tourism Richmond

What will I see?

Pumpkin Promenade (Walk-Out): 

Walk out to the Pumpkin Patch and pick one pumpkin of your choice. While you're there, enjoy the beautiful sights, the Corn Maze, and the various food vendors. 

Wagon Experience (Ride-Out):

Ride out to and from the Pumpkin Patch on a tractor-drawn wagon, with an entertainer who will make sure your ride is enjoyable at all times! Once at the Pumpkin Patch, enjoy wide open spaces, pick one Pumpkin of your choice, and enjoy the food vendors. For your safety and the others around you, social distancing measures have been put in place on the wagon ride. 

The site will be accented with autumnal decorations, while an impressive array of resident farm animals will also be on-hand for viewing. 

Tell me more about the animals?

Housed in their own enclosures, the resident critters at Richmond Country Farms include goats, alpacas, donkeys, and more. Colourful chickens and ducks also call the site home and you’ll likely see some of them wandering around the grounds on your visit. Keep in mind this is not a petting zoo: photos are fully encouraged, but you won’t be hugging any goats while you’re here!

A rooster stands perched on a white fence at Richmond Country Farms - Photo: John Lee
There are lots of resident chickens to spot at Richmond Country Farms. | Photo: ​John Lee

Will I be able to buy pumpkins?

Yes! Every ticket holder receives a free pumpkin. But if you’re looking for something more for Halloween or your own pie-making shenanigans, you can also buy some choice farm-grown pumpkins at the onsite produce market. Looking for a behemoth squash to wow the neighbours? Now’s your big chance to get one.

Is there any other produce for sale?

Family-run Richmond Country Farms houses one of the area’s largest and most popular destination produce markets. After your Pumpkin Patch adventure, explore the indoor and outdoor stands piled high with seasonal produce from this and other farms. At this time of year, look for corn, kale, potatoes, broccoli, and more. In October, the market is open daily from 9:00am to 7:30pm.

A large wooden sign with a hand-painted apple hangs on a tree in front of the Produce stands at Richmond Country Farms
The market shop is big lure for locals and visitors. | Photo: John Lee

Is there anything else to buy?

The site also houses its own charming winery. Country Vines Winery has a friendly, rustic-look tasting room that stocks dozens of well-priced wines made from the farm’s own grapes. It’s a great place to pick-up a few bottles—plus a gift or three for Christmas (yes, it’s just around the corner). Check out their popular Shameless Rosé and mouthwatering Beso Dulce Whitey.

An antique covered wagon with the words "Wine Tasting" hung on the side at Richmond Country Farms - Photo: John Lee
Don't miss out on Country Vines Winery while you're there. | Photo: ​John Lee

What should I wear?

This is a working farm and it’s also October. Boots are highly recommended for muddy conditions, while raingear and warm layers are essential for Metro Vancouver’s fall weather. Keep yourself warm and dry and you’ll enjoy your visit much more!

A covered wagon carries people to the pumpkin patch at Richmond Country Farms as a guide with a guitar and cowboy hat entertains the passengers
Tractor-drawn wagon rides are a popular draw at the Pumpkin Patch. | Photo: Richmond Country Farms

Are there any farm rules I should know about?

Yes. Masks are mandatory for check-in but optional in the fields. Dogs are not permitted in the wagon experience but are welcome on-leash, with the walk-out ticket only. They must be on a leash at all times and owners are asked to please bring dog waste bags. There is no smoking or vaping in the pumpkin patch. 

How much does it cost?

Weekday Pumpkin Patch admission costs $15 per person, rising to $18 on weekends and holidays, or if you want to save yourself some $$ when you purchase online it's $12 per person, rising to $15 on weekends and holidays. Visit the Richmond Country Farms website for updates.