Families Flock to Abbey Farms for Annual Pumpkin Daze

John Deknatel and his daughter Jaina, 3, returned to Abbey Farms in Aurora, a decision sparked by last year’s memorable visit. John described the experience as one that merited repetition. ‘Last year, she enjoyed the slide and the pumpkin patch. We knew we had to come back,’ he shared. ‘Families are drawn here repeatedly. There’s always an attraction for kids. You find activities here unavailable elsewhere,’ he said.

With Halloween approaching, Abbey Farms once again offered children a variety of fall activities during their Pumpkin Daze event, lasting until November 1st. Entering its 17th year, Pumpkin Daze has maintained a strong pull, drawing thousands of visitors, particularly on sunny weekends. Associate Director Phil Nork attributed the event’s success to the community feel and sunny weather. ‘Despite some rain at the start, weekends have been bustling,’ Nork noted. Last weekend saw over 5,000 visitors.

The event has turned into a tradition, Nork observed, with familiar faces returning annually. ‘As children grow, new stories emerge, and visiting becomes second nature,’ he added. New attractions include a beer tent and music, alongside increased school group visits during the week.

Features capturing visitors’ attention include the 8-acre corn maze, a jumping pillow, and a corn cannon. Danica Luken, an employee at Abbey Farms, demonstrated the corn cannon’s draw. ‘Kids find it fun and surprising due to the loud boom,’ Luken explained. The cannon allows kids to aim at targets with corn cob shots. Significant corn usage keeps staff replenishing supplies over weekends.

A diverse group of attendees, including school children with parent volunteers and families like the Deknatels, enjoyed the sunny Friday. First-time visitor Sue Duffy brought her daughter and niece. ‘These events attract all ages. Friends my age come with their adult children, and find it timelessly fun,’ she stated. Her favorite part? The candy, she revealed.

Emma Garcia, visiting from Michigan, relished the variety of activities. ‘We’re expending energy, having fun, and indulging in donuts,’ she declared. Her daughter Esperanza echoed her grandmother’s sentiment, favoring the candy. She also enjoys pumpkin carving, despite its slimy nature. ‘After Christmas, Halloween is my second favorite holiday,’ she admitted.

Katarina Grapsas from Naperville recounted their fourth visit, highlighting the jumping pillow as her children’s favorite. ‘It’s become a family tradition. It’s where my kids love to celebrate one of their favorite holidays,’ she said. ‘It caters to all their ages,’ she added.

Pumpkin Daze at Abbey Farms continues through November 1st. The venue remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Detailed schedules, including special Halloween activities and the flashlight corn maze, are available at www.abbeyfarms.org/pumpkin-daze.