Every year, as the leaves start to turn and a crispness fills the air (okay, maybe not “crispness,” but I’m going for fall magic here – maybe we can all just imagine that subtle cool breeze that comes every once in a while in October in Alabama being “crisp”, okay?), something wonderful happens in West Blocton. It’s a tradition that’s been bringing smiles to faces for a decade now, and it goes by the name of Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch. Nestled in the heart of our community, this patch of pumpkin perfection has become a beloved October tradition for locals and visitors alike.
Griffin Farms has a rich history dating back to 1961 when it started as The Lazy “G,” a dairy farm with 40 head of cattle. Pat and Carolyn Griffin, along with their three children, Pam, Barry, and Jeff, worked tirelessly to maintain the farm’s legacy. In 1986, Barry Griffin took the reins, renaming it B & L Dairy and expanding its herd to around 300 cattle at its peak.
However, life has a way of leading us down unexpected paths. In 1997, the dairy business took its final bow, and the land patiently awaited its next chapter. That chapter began in 2013 when Barry and his son Brandon Griffin transformed the farm into what we now lovingly know as Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch.
Each year, Griffin Farms has continued to grow, adding new and exciting attractions to make every visit unforgettable. Their mission? To create cherished memories for families that will last a lifetime.
As the calendar turns to October, Griffin Farms opens its gates to the community. You can enjoy the festivities on weekends, Saturdays and Sundays, and even bring your school for an educational adventure during the week.
Mark your calendars because the 2023 Pumpkin Patch season kicks off on Sunday, October 1st! You can visit on Saturdays from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sundays from 12 PM to 6 PM. Admission is $10 for anyone aged 2 and older, and you can pay with cash or card at the gate (please note there’s a 3% card fee) – but cash is preferred if possible as it keeps the lines running smoothly, keeping the chance of card machine malfunctions that can happen on country internet at a minimum.
Pumpkins aren’t included in the admission price, but they’re available for purchase at market value. Pumpkin tickets are your proof of purchase when you’re ready to take your new little orange friend home.
And what’s included with your admission? Well, it’s a cornucopia of fun (see what I did there?): animal barn, hamster wheel, bouncy barn, basketball, barrel train, corn maze, wagon rides, hay mountain, truck slide, bison sighting, slides, swings, farm fit, Charlotte’s Web, toddler playground, tractor play, big and small ziplines, big and small rock walls, bungee trampoline, king-size corn bed, tire mountain, and even a fire truck (thanks to the donation from Cedar Grove Fire Department)! It’s a whirlwind of excitement waiting for you and your whole family.
Additional attractions like pony rides, face painting, food vendors, and crafts have varying prices, so bring some extra cash to be sure to make the most of your day.
Homeschooled and limited on options for a field trip opportunity? No worries – Griffin Farms offers a homeschool day on Columbus Day.
Cool car enthusiasts and appreciators can rev their engines and join in on the fun at the 7th Annual Classic Car Cruise on October 7th.
Griffin Farms also caters to private events like birthday parties, weddings, and corporate gatherings, offering an exclusive experience – so feel free to reach out to them for more information if you or someone you know might be interested.
Please leave your furry friends at home because Griffin Farms does not allow pets – however, service animals under Title III of the ADA are more than welcome.
So, what’s new in 2023? Lindsey Griffin shared some exciting updates for this season, including a Large Jump Pad, Tractor Training Tricycles, and a doubled-in-size corn crib from 24×24’ to 24’x48’. And for some friendly competition, they’ve added Dueling Swings.
Have you ever wondered how many people can enjoy Griffin Farms on a busy weekend? I have, so I asked – and according to Lindsey, on a busy weekend, they can see anywhere from five to ten thousand people come through.
When asked about her favorite part of Griffin Farms, Lindsey shared, “I love that this has become a family tradition for most families. This is our 10th anniversary of operating and we have really met some of the nicest people. Whether they are visiting the farm for the first time or have come every year!”
Located at 826 Griffin Road, West Blocton, AL 35184, Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch is officially “not too far” from Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Calera, and surrounding areas, giving you and your family a fine opportunity to take a drive and listen to the Cocomelon soundtrack just one more time. For any questions, you can reach out to them at griffinfarmspumpkinpatch@gmail.com or (205) 535-0137.
So, as the calendar flips to October, make Griffin Farms Pumpkin Patch a part of your family’s fall tradition. Come for the pumpkins, stay for the fun, and leave with memories that will warm your heart for years to come. Griffin Farms isn’t just a place; it’s an experience that keeps the spirit of fall alive in our community. See you there, pumpkin pals!
