Pumpkin Patch in Richmond, BC: The Insider’s Guide

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 entices in-the-know fans from across Metro Vancouver and beyond. But if you haven’t been before—or you’re wondering what’s on at the site this year—here’s the lowdown on why you should gather your friends and family and beeline over during the next few weeks.

*The Pumpkin Patch is a popular seasonal attraction. | Photo: Richmond Country Farms*

WHERE AND WHEN IS IT?

This year’s Pumpkin Patch event starts on September 30 and is expected to run throughout October. Weekday hours are from 9:00am to 4:00pm, with weekend and holiday hours from 10:00am to 4:30pm.

Richmond Country Farms is located at 12900 Steveston Highway in East Richmond. It’s easily reached by car and there is plenty of free parking. Several transit bus services also stop right outside––plan your trip via the TransLink website.

*Pick the perfect pumpkin at Richmond Country Farms. | Photo: Tourism Richmond*

WHAT WILL I SEE?

You’ll ride on a traditional hay wagon out to the fields where you’ll be able to select your own choice of pumpkin to take home. Each wagon has its own entertainers and the event’s popular onsite band––the Country Pumpkins––will also be performing for guests. You might even spot wandering characters Polly Pumpkin and Strawberry Shortcake while you’re here.

*Tractor-drawn wagon rides are a popular draw at the Pumpkin Patch. | Photo: Richmond Country Farms*

But that’s not all. The site will be adorned with autumnal decorations––perfect for fall-themed selfies––and there’s also a huge farmstand-style produce store and a charming winery that is well-worth visiting. And don’t miss the chance to check out all the photogenic animals that live on the farm as well!

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE ANIMALS?

*One of the resident pigs at Richmond Country Farms. | Photo: Richmond Country Farms*

Housed in their own white fence enclosures, the resident critters at Richmond Country Farms include pigs, alpacas and a large number of goats that like to climb on top of their miniature barn homes.

*There are lots of resident chickens to spot at Richmond Country Farms. | Photo: John Lee*

Colourful chickens and ducks also call the site home and you’ll likely see some of them wandering freely around the grounds during your visit. Keep in mind that this is not a petting zoo: photos are fully encouraged but you won’t be touching or feeding any animals here.

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 your choice of 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.

*The market shop is big lure for locals and visitors. | Photo: John Lee*

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE TO BUY?

The produce market is also filled with locally sourced honey, pies, cheeses and more. A short walk away on the east side of the parking lot, you’ll also find the site’s charming Country Vines Winery. This friendly, rustic-look tasting room stocks dozens of well-priced wines made from B.C. grapes. It’s a great place to pick-up a few bottles—plus a gift or three for Christmas. Among our favourites are the delicious Shameless Rosé and the mouthwatering Contact Pinot Gris.

*Don’t miss out on Country Vines Winery while you’re there. | Photo: John Lee*

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

It’s not summer anymore and this is also a working farm. Boots are highly recommended for the muddy terrain, while raingear and warm layers are essential for Metro Vancouver’s ever-changing autumnal weather. Keep yourself and your kids warm and dry and you’ll definitely enjoy your visit much more.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Weekday Pumpkin Patch admission costs $15 per person, rising to $18 on weekends and holidays. All tickets are sold at the door only. Visit the Richmond Country Farms website for more information.

Last Updated on October 10, 2023 by Tourism Richmond