Not even a pandemic can stop people from finding that perfect pumpkin.

Pumpkin Patch / Pixabay

Yesterday was national pumpkin day here in Canada, and with Halloween coming up, local pumpkin patches have opened their gates in preparation for the big day. Although most festivities are outside, Stephanie from Port Kells Nurseries says things are looking a little different this year due to COVID-19.

“Usually we charge an admission and we’ve got the hay wagon rides and a café, and the haunted house and those are items we’re not doing this year so we’re not charging an admission. So it’s just the pumpkin patch, cedar maze, and the animals that we have.”

Health of course is still a priority this spooky season, and nursery staff are doing everything they can to keep everyone safe.

“We have the plastic dividers that you see at most stores. We have hand sanitizer stations upon entering, exiting, and then in the pumpkin patch station as well. But most of our activities are outside which is nice like the pumpkin patch being outside, so everybody’s able to social distance that way.”

For many, going to the pumpkin patch is an annual tradition. This year may not have the hayrides and haunted houses, but it can still be a healthy and happy Halloween. As is normal in 2020, most farm stores are encouraging customers to wear a mask. Many locations around the lower mainland are also asking customers to book ahead, so check your local pumpkin patch’s website.