The falling leaves. The chill of the wind. The smell of pumpkin spice lattes and warm apple cider fill the air as the season of fall starts to come through. Activities of all sorts fill our weekends off, such as haunted houses, apple picking and the ever-popular, pumpkin patch!

Pumpkin patches are all over Illinois, no matter where you live. Did you know that Illinois is known as one of the leading producers of pumpkins in Illinois? According to an article by journalist Jay Jones’ in the Chicago Tribune, “The soil, the climate and the presence of canning plants are all reasons why [this part of Illinois] produces so many pumpkins.”  But what makes a good pumpkin patch? Junior, Emma Brennan, believes that “it’s the activities that they have. Even though it’s called a ‘pumpkin patch’ they always have fun rides and things to do. The one I go to has a corn maze and a house with chicks that you can pet and other animals you can feed which is always really fun!”

But with so many pumpkin patches across the state, where should you go? Alexa Salzman, Junior, says “The Farm in Westmont. It’s super close to my house and I really like it because there’s just so much to choose from and they give you little wagons to put your pumpkins in.” Junior, Catherine Quinn also states, “Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm because my family has been going there since my sisters were little! They offer so many different activities including a massive hayride, haunted house, corn maze and petting zoo. It’s SO family friendly and represents the epitome of fall!” But are pumpkin patches not your thing? Maybe go to a haunted house or do some apple picking if it’s not too late! Fall is full of many activities and with it many memories for you, your family and your friends!