The 2026 Pumpkin Patch at Bates Nut Farm
Bates Nut Farm's century-old pumpkin patch offers tractor hayrides, a straw maze, and a corn pit. Children can enjoy bounce houses, slides, face painting, and slime making. Live music and food are available on weekend evenings.
What to Expect
A sprawling pumpkin patch with over 7,500 pumpkins and farm activities.
Event Details
Duration
Daily from September 17 to October 31
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Whiskey Heat
- Steal Dawn
- VC High School Band
- Alias
- Nitro Express
- I Know Jack
- Cool Rush Band
- Ash Street Ramblers
- +3 more
Organizer
Bates Nut Farm
Food & Drink
Food trucks and vendors available, including BBQ, ice cream, funnel cakes, kettle corn, lemonade, coffee, chicken rice bowls, turkey legs, chicken fingers, fruit cups, and more.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and children
Vibe
Festive, family-friendly, autumnal
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $
- Parking: Weekday parking is free. $10 parking fee applies to the last weekend in September and every weekend in October.
- Pets: Pet-friendly (dogs on leash welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on weekends, especially in October, to secure parking and enjoy the activities before crowds build.
- Check the specific schedule for Pony Rides and the Petting Zoo, as they are only available during the month of October.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid parking fees and experience a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Take advantage of the extended hours on the last three Fridays in October for evening entertainment, including live music and additional food vendors.
- Bring cash for activity tickets and some food vendors, as not all may accept cards or Venmo.
Special Events & Promotions
- Fall Friday Festival with extended hours, food vendors, activities, and live music on 10/9, 10/16, 10/23
- Antique Tractor Show and Live Music on 9/26 & 9/27
- Pony rides and petting zoo available throughout October
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 Pumpkin Patch open?
The Pumpkin Patch opens mid-September and runs through October 31st, 2026. Specific hours vary by weekday and weekend, with extended hours on select Fridays in October.
Is there an admission fee?
Admission to the pumpkin patch is free. However, there is a $10 per vehicle parking fee on the last weekend of September and all weekends in October.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, Bates Nut Farm is dog-friendly! Dogs on a leash are welcome throughout the farm, including on the tractor hayride and in the straw maze. Please remember to clean up after your pet.
What food options are available?
A variety of food vendors will be on-site, offering everything from BBQ and ice cream to funnel cakes, kettle corn, and chicken rice bowls. Food is available during weekdays in October and throughout the weekends.
What activities are available for children?
Children can enjoy a bounce house, straw maze, corn pit, giant slide (weekends), face painting, rock climbing, a mechanical bull, and more. Pony rides and a petting zoo are available in October.
More Halloween near Escondido
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.