What Knott's Berry Farm offers during pumpkin season

Knott's Berry Farm, located in Buena Park, California, opens a seasonal pumpkin patch typically from late August through October. The patch sits on the grounds of the amusement park and operates as a separate ticketed experience — you do not need an amusement park admission to visit the pumpkin patch alone. The farm sells pumpkins of various sizes, gourds, corn stalks, hay bales, and fall decorations. You can also pick your own pumpkin directly from the field during operating hours.

The pumpkin patch experience includes activities beyond shopping: a corn maze, hayrides, and photo opportunities with fall-themed backdrops. Food vendors sell seasonal items like kettle corn, apple cider, and pumpkin-flavored snacks. The farm also hosts special events on select weekends, including live entertainment and character appearances, though these vary year to year.

Key Takeaways

  • Knott's Berry Farm pumpkin patch operates separately from the amusement park and charges its own admission fee, which typically ranges from $10 to $15 per person depending on the date and any special events.
  • The patch opens in late August and runs through October, with extended hours on weekends and during Halloween week, though exact dates change annually.
  • You can pick your own pumpkin from the field or purchase pre-picked ones, and prices vary by pumpkin size and weight.
  • The experience includes a corn maze, hayrides, and seasonal food vendors, making it a multi-hour outing rather than a quick shopping trip.
  • Parking is included with pumpkin patch admission and uses the same lot as the amusement park.

Admission cost and what it covers

Pumpkin patch admission is separate from Knott's Berry Farm amusement park tickets. General admission to the patch typically costs between $10 and $15 per person, though prices are higher on peak dates like weekends and the week before Halloween. Children under 2 are often free. The admission price includes entry to the grounds, access to the corn maze, and the ability to walk through the pumpkin field.

Hayrides and pick-your-own pumpkin experiences may carry additional charges beyond general admission. A hayride typically costs $3 to $5 per person. If you pick your own pumpkin, you pay for the pumpkin by weight at checkout — prices per pound vary but usually fall between $0.30 and $0.50 per pound. Pre-picked pumpkins are also available at set prices, ranging from $5 to $30 depending on size.

Parking is included with your pumpkin patch admission. You use the same parking lot as the amusement park, and your parking validation is provided at the pumpkin patch entrance.

Hours and seasonal dates

The pumpkin patch typically opens in late August and operates through the end of October. Exact opening and closing dates change each year, so you should check the official Knott's Berry Farm website or call ahead before planning your visit. Weekday hours are usually 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., while weekend hours extend to 10 p.m. or later. During Halloween week, the patch often stays open until 11 p.m.

Hours are extended during peak periods like the final two weeks of October. The patch may close earlier on certain weekdays or open later on some mornings, so confirming hours for your specific visit date prevents a wasted trip. Special event nights, when the farm hosts live entertainment or character meet-and-greets, may have different hours or require separate tickets.

Pick-your-own pumpkins versus pre-picked options

You can choose between picking your own pumpkin from the field or buying one that is already harvested. Pick-your-own pumpkins are priced by weight at a per-pound rate, so a small pumpkin might cost $3 to $8 while a large one could reach $20 or more. The farm provides clippers or knives to cut the pumpkin from the vine. Children often enjoy the hands-on experience of selecting and cutting their own pumpkin, though the field can be muddy after rain.

Pre-picked pumpkins are displayed in a sales area and priced by size category rather than weight. These are already cleaned and ready to take home. Pre-picked options are faster if you know exactly what size you want and do not want to spend time walking the field. The farm also sells decorative gourds, white pumpkins, and specialty varieties like sugar pumpkins, though availability varies.

Corn maze and other activities

The corn maze is included with general pumpkin patch admission and typically takes 20 to 40 minutes to complete, depending on your age and how quickly you navigate it. The maze design changes each year. Hayrides depart on a regular schedule throughout operating hours and take you through the farm grounds; these cost extra but are popular with families and groups.

Photo areas with fall-themed props and backdrops are scattered throughout the patch and are free to use. The farm also sets up a petting area or petting zoo on some dates, though this may require a separate small fee. Food vendors sell items like caramel apples, hot cider, and roasted corn throughout the grounds.

What to bring and what to wear

Wear closed-toe shoes if you plan to pick your own pumpkin, as the field can be uneven and muddy. Bring a light jacket or sweater — October evenings in Southern California are cool but not cold, typically in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit. If you visit after rain, the field will be wet and muddy, so plan accordingly or visit on a dry day.

Bring cash or a card for food vendors and additional activities beyond general admission. Some vendors may not accept cards, so having cash on hand is helpful. If you are picking your own pumpkin, wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty. Sunscreen is useful if you visit during afternoon hours, as the patch has limited shade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy a pumpkin to visit the pumpkin patch?

No. You can pay admission and enjoy the corn maze, hayrides, and grounds without purchasing anything. Many people visit just to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the fall atmosphere. However, most visitors do buy at least a small pumpkin or gourd to take home.

Can I bring my own wagon or cart to carry a pumpkin?

The farm provides wagons and carts for rent or use, though policies vary by year. It is worth asking at the entrance. If you pick a very large pumpkin, having a cart makes transport much easier, especially if you have young children with you.

What if the pumpkin patch is too crowded when I arrive?

Weekday visits, especially early in the season (late August and September), are much less crowded than weekends and Halloween week. Arriving right when the patch opens or visiting on a weekday afternoon gives you a quieter experience. The farm does not limit entry once admission is paid, so crowding is a comfort issue rather than a capacity issue.

Are there restrooms at the pumpkin patch?

Yes, restroom facilities are available on the grounds. They are typically located near the main entrance and food vendor areas. During peak hours, restrooms can have lines, so plan accordingly if you are visiting with young children.

Can I visit the pumpkin patch and the amusement park on the same day?

Yes, but you need separate tickets for each. Amusement park admission does not include pumpkin patch entry, and vice versa. If you want to do both, budget time for each experience — the pumpkin patch typically takes 2 to 3 hours, and the amusement park is a full-day activity.