In fall, Orange County, California, really lives up to its name. The landscape is painted a rich orange hue, with pumpkin patches and falling leaves heralding the autumn. Families will find plenty to do in Orange County in the fall – many ways to celebrate the autumn season and make memories to last all winter long.

Orange County, California, is full of activities for families throughout the year, but a favorite time for many is during fall. While the colors may not change as much in Orange County as in other places, we do see plenty of oranges and reds and despite living in our cherished warmer climate, we can really see and feel the fall.  Those oranges come in the forms of pumpkins and decorations celebrating Halloween and the fall season. Pumpkin patches in Orange County offer families and friends the opportunity to spend time together taking in the beauty of the outdoors, soaking up everything that makes fall such a special time of year. It’s time to celebrate fall, Halloween, family and friends with some rides, animals, and jack-o-lanterns in Orange County.

Tanaka Farms | 5380 University Avenue, Irvine

Tanaka Farms is more than just a pumpkin patch for both families and adults. There are so many things to do that you may even forget to pick out a pumpkin.  With a 30-acre farm calling you for a memorable wagon ride, it is a must do when you visit Tanaka Farms. Picking fresh vegetables for cooking your favorite recipes is so much fun and what would a pumpkin patch be without a petting zoo? For your little firecrackers in the house, make sure you take time – and a camera – to fire pumpkins out of a cannon.  There is also an ATV ride that you can take and so much more.  Of course, not all of these activities are free but the corn maze and parking are!

Pumpkin City’s Pumpkin Farm | 24155 Laguna Hills Mall

The entire family is sure to have a great time at Pumpkin City’s Pumpkin Farm at the Laguna Hills Mall. Besides a great selection of pumpkins that were grown nearby, there are carnival games and rides, food, and even a puppet show theater. On October 29th, there will also be a costume parade, unique arts and crafts. Children can get a jump start on trick-or-treating, and enjoy the treasured chance to wear their costumes and parade around for everyone to see.

Pumpkin City also runs two more pumpkin patches in the Orange County area. One can be found at 2280 E. Lincoln Ave in Anaheim, and the other is at 30606 Santa Margarita Parkway in Rancho Santa Margarita offering experiences closer to home for those around Orange County.

Pumpkin Patch at Irvine Park Railroad | 1 Irvine Park Road

One of the most popular pumpkin patches in Orange County can be found at the Irvine Park Railroad. Not only can you ride the train, you can also take a hayride, play carnival games, decorate cookies, watch tractor races, and so much more. During the weekends, the experience is more like a harvest festival for the entire family.

Pumpkinpalooza | 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano

Pumpkinpalooza is hosted by Zoomars which is already a fun place to visit even without the pumpkin patch. Visitors can visit the petting zoo; pan for gems, fossils, and gold; enjoy pony rides and so much more. During the fall season, you can also pick out the perfect pumpkin and enjoy seasonal activities.

Mountain Pines Christmas Tree Farm | 29932 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano

Many people may recall this address as the Mountain Pines Christmas Tree Farm; those people would be correct. However, for a brief time before the trees are ripe enough for cutting, you will find pumpkins. It is a time of year to not be missed.  There are plenty of activities, ranging from pony rides to petting zoos, to keep kids busy. If you are looking for an energy release while there be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to go rock climbing on the 25 -foot rock wall at Mountain Pines Christmas Tree Farm.

Visiting pumpkin patches in Orange County California as a family is a holiday tradition children remember and appreciate. If you want to take the pumpkin patch experience to the next level, check with pumpkin patches to see if they have any special Halloween events or activities.  Plus, kids always enjoy the opportunity to wear their costumes more than once each year!