Unlike other pick-your-own fruits and veggies, the goal of pumpkin picking is not to fill a bushel or a pint, but to find that one perfectly shaped gourd fit to be carved into the most terrifying or most jovial jack-o'-lantern. Round or narrow, big or small, squat or oblong - you decide! Find the one that's just right and bring it home for a family-fun afternoon of carving and decorating that will really put you and your little ones in the Halloween mood.
Pick up a few extras while you're at it and whip up some homemade treats like a classic pumpkin pie or some less traditional (but still tasty) chocolate pumpkin muffins. Or, if the kitchen isn't your domain, bring home some fresh-baked goodies from one of the locations listed below. And don't forget to save the seeds! Roasted pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, are a delicious and nutritious snack filled with protein and essential minerals.
All pick-your-own dates depend on weather, growing conditions, and demand. Call to check availability before visiting any of these locations.
Also see our full 2009 guide to pick-your-own pumpkin locations in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Amawalk Farm
42 Wood Street, Katonah
914-245-2319; www.amawalkfarm.org
Pick-your-own pumpkins and vegetables through mid October at a certified organic farm. Open Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 2-6pm, Tuesday and Thursday 3-6pm.
Hilltop Hanover Farm and Environmental Center
1271 Hanover Street, Yorktown Heights
914-962-2368; www.hilltophanoverfarm.org
U-pick pumpkins and vegetables through the fall, Saturdays only 10am-1pm. Three hiking trails. Guided tours available. Free parking. Farm stand with farm-grown produce, seasonal vegetables, herbs, and cut flowers. Open Thursday and Friday 2-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm.
Stuart's Fruit Farm
62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs
914-245-2784; www.stuartsfarm.com
Pick-your-own pumpkins and apples through November. Open daily 10am-5pm.
Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm
1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights
914-245-5111; www.wilkensfarm.com
Pick-your-own pumpkins and apples through October; Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10am-4:30pm. Tricia's Treats Bake Shop and Appleseed Gift Shop. Farm market with pre-picked farm produce, snacks, apple cider, and more.
