35 years of Illinois’ Great Pumpkin Patch

ARTHUR, Ill. (WCIA) — Even though it still feels like summer, The Great Pumpkin Patch is ready to ring in the fall season.

Owner Mac Condill was raised on the farm, and has always had a love for agriculture. Condill’s pumpkins have been featured at the White House, and with the likes of Martha Stewart, but Arthur will always be his home base.

Wednesday was the patch’s 35th opening day.

“On one hand, it’s exhausting,” Condill said. “On the other hand, it’s a new excitement with a new season.”

People come from all over to get a glimpse of the president-worthy pumpkins. Norval Fandrich came all the way from Montana to spend time with his family on the farm.

This is the second year Norval and his great-granddaughter, Iva, have explored all the patch has to offer. Their favorite attraction is the hay maze.

“It’s kind of fun,” Iva said.

“I’m too old to figure out that stuff,” Norval added.

Condill and his team work for months to make sure the patch is worth the trip. New attractions including a renovated children’s garden, baked goods and a miniature horse named “Patches” have given the farm a whole new look.

“If you love pumpkin, squash and gourds, we have to be on your destination this fall,” Condill said.

The patch is open Sept. 18 through Oct. 31. Information about admission can be found here.

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