The fall season has officially begun. Although the weather still feels like summer with the heat, California Baptist University students have a local opportunity to get into the fall spirit at Live Oak Canyon Farm in Redlands, Calif.
The pumpkin patch is about 30 minutes from campus, depending on traffic, and is the largest in Southern California. Pumpkin patches are one of the best ways to embrace the fall season.
During the week, Live Oak is mainly open in the afternoon until 8 p.m., and from Friday through the weekend, it opens all day and closes at 10 p.m., except on Sundays when it closes at 9 p.m.
Pricing to enter the pumpkin patch varies depending on the day, typically ranging from $17 to $25. More information can be found on their website, liveoakcanyon.com.
As the largest pumpkin patch in Southern California, Live Oak offers a variety of activities. Attendees can enjoy rides, games, a corn maze, fair food, the largest selection of pumpkins and the largest petting zoo in Southern California, with over 400 animals. Around the patch, visitors will find numerous photo ops perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy autumn-themed pictures.
With all that Live Oak Canyon offers, visitors can experience plenty. Jasmine Hernandez, sophomore digital marketing major, visited the pumpkin patch this season to kick off her fall spirit.
“My experience at the Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch was the perfect mix of spooky fun and autumn comfort to get me in the fall spirit. Being at the pumpkin patch, I enjoyed several festive photo ops, fun activities and good food with my friends,” Hernandez said.
A visit to Live Oak can easily fill an entire day, with even more left to explore on a return trip. The petting zoo, with over 400 cute and friendly animals, is a must-see for animal lovers. Visitors can interact with animals like horses, goats, llamas, Brahma bulls and more.
For those concerned about the safety of animals in petting zoos, Live Oak Canyon provides a statement on its website: “We take especially good care of our animal friends. They are healthy, happy and love to be played with.”
Many who visit the pumpkin patch leave satisfied, finding something special to love about Live Oak. Ashley Velasco, sophomore social work major, shared her favorite part of the experience.
“I’m so glad I went to the pumpkin patch! It was huge with so many activities, but my favorite part had to be the adorable Highland cows,” Velasco said.
Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch is one of many fall harvest experiences available to students, offering a perfect fall atmosphere despite the lingering summer weather. Once inside the farm, the fall spirit hits immediately, making it an ideal destination for October. Take your friends and experience the ultimate fall pumpkin patch this season.