Local Patch Pumpkin-Picking Guides

Local Patch regional guides for Amherst, Bradenton, Sarasota, Lakeland, Clearwater, Healdsburg, Petaluma, Sonoma Valley, Rohnert Park and Napa Valley highlight pumpkin-picking as a seasonal, family-friendly activity that blends nature, tradition and community. Many patches offer complementary attractions such as hayrides, corn mazes and children’s games, and choosing your own pumpkin helps support local farmers. Guides note the difference between carving pumpkins (larger, hollow, watery flesh) and baking pumpkins (smaller, sweeter flesh typically sold at grocery stores). For carving, pick a sturdy, clean pumpkin and consider a pumpkin‑carving kit (saws, scooper, drill) or common household tools, and follow step‑by‑step tutorials such as Warren Nash’s on YouTube. Each regional guide lists local patch recommendations and invites readers to suggest any missed locations in the comments.