The Pumpkin Picking Tradition & Which Patch to Pick from This Year

Going pumpkin picking has become a beloved fall tradition in America, but how did it start? Well, the origins of this tradition can be traced back to Native American history and European settlers' folklore, as well as harvest festivals, the media and pop culture, and the rise of agritourism. 

A Native American Tradition

Pumpkins are native to North America and were cultivated by indigenous tribes long before the arrival of European settlers. Native Americans recognized the nutritional value of pumpkins and used them as a staple food source, incorporating them into various dishes. Their cultivation techniques and knowledge of pumpkins were shared with European settlers. Pumpkins quickly became a staple crop for European immigrants due to their versatility, storage capability, and nutritional value. They could be easily grown and stored throughout the winter months. As colonial agriculture developed, pumpkins became a crucial element in the diet of early American settlers.

That's cool, but why do we carve them? 

Pumpkin Carving, Halloween, and Harvest Time

The tradition of carving pumpkins into Jack-o'-lanterns has its roots in Celtic and Irish folklore. People carved turnips and other root vegetables in Ireland and Scotland to ward off evil spirits. When Irish immigrants came to America, they discovered that pumpkins were more readily available and easier to carve. The practice evolved into the pumpkin carving tradition associated with Halloween today. Halloween also coincides with harvest time. As agricultural practices evolved in America, the fall harvest season became a time of celebration and gratitude for bountiful crops. 

As time wore on, harvest festivals and fairs emerged for communities to come together and enjoy the fruits of their labor. As a staple of the fall harvest time, pumpkins were prominently featured in these celebrations. 

Rural Culture, Agritourism, and Cultural Continuity

During the 20th century, as America became more urbanized, many people romanticized rural farm life and agriculture. This nostalgia, combined with the desire to experience a more authentic and hands-on connection to nature, led to the rise of agritourism. Farmers began opening their fields to the public for activities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes. This allowed families to experience the joys of farm life and create cherished memories during the fall season. And it didn't stop there. 

As the media and television became more prominent, they reinforced the popularity of the pumpkin-picking tradition with sitcoms, commercials, and more. As generations have passed, this tradition has been passed down, creating a sense of continuity and nostalgia. This combination of factors has transformed pumpkin picking into a cherished and enduring fall tradition that brings joy to families and communities nationwide.

So, where can you go for this quintessential fall experience? We have three local suggestions for you below:

• Belvedere Plantation: More than 260 years old, this family-owned farm sits on over 600 acres and is ready to host your fall family fun. From their Fall Harvest festival, featuring their Great Pumpkin Patch, to their Great Adventure Maize Maze, Belvedere Plantation provides the traditional fall experience and much more, offering over 25 attractions, like giant slides and bounce houses, included in your price of admission, as well as other additional attractions for purchase, such as paintball. Families can easily spend an entire day at Belvedere and not run out of activities. It is only open for the fall season, but it is essentially a fall amusement park.

• Cost: $22.95 pp online/$27.95 at the gate (cashless after the gate); season passes, adventure cards, and other incentives offered

• Address: 1410 Belvedere Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408 

• Phone: (540) 373-4478

• Website: belvedereplantation.com

• Braehead Farm: This family-owned and operated farm and market was established in 1937 and is open year-round for family fun and to pick your own produce. Braehead Farm has many farm animals and a playground for your little ones to enjoy. If you simply want to choose your pumpkins, however, you can. The pumpkin patch is on the free admission side– just pay for your pumpkins ($0.75/lb.). You can also purchase corn stalk bundles and straw bales at $9/ea. to add to your fall decor.

• Cost: Farm & Market Side- Free Admission; Family Playgrounds Side- Admission- $6 (plus tax) pp year-round or $14 for Fall Festival Days; ages 2 and under are free; season passes are also available

• Address: 1130 Tyler Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

• Phone: (540) 899- 9848

• Website: braeheadfarm.com

• Snead's Farm: This lovely farm is another option for your fall experience that can include your canine family members (on-leash only). Hayrides, farm animals, giant slides, and other activities are all part of their agenda. You can pick your own "very large" pumpkin for only $8, opt for a smaller one for $4, or go all-out with a "jumbo" pumpkin for $12. Outside food is welcomed on weekdays only, and a wide selection of local food vendors will be stationed throughout the farm on the weekends. Snead's Farm also offers a special Military Day, which has become an important tradition for them and will be October 9 this year. The farm will feature all of the typical weekend activities on this day with a special admission price for all current and retired military members and their families for $7. 

• Cost: Fall festival admission on weekdays (except Military Day- Oct. 9)- $10 per person, includes unlimited hayrides; fall festival admission on weekends and Military Day- Oct. 9)- $15 pp., includes unlimited hayrides. 

• Address: 18294 Tidewater Trail, Fredericksburg, VA 22408

• Phone: 540-371-9328

• Website: sneadsfarm.com