Pumpkin Hollow at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead in Overland Park, Kansas, is one of the most anticipated seasonal events in the region. Held each October, it offers families a chance to enjoy the magic of fall in a fun, safe, and educational farm environment. With hayrides, pumpkins, scarecrows, and farm animals all around, this autumn attraction is a perfect combination of festive celebration and rural charm. Visitors from the Kansas City metro area and beyond come to experience the colorful displays, kid-friendly activities, and the welcoming community spirit that defines Pumpkin Hollow at Deanna Rose.
Location and Atmosphere
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is located in southern Overland Park and is known for its authentic farming experience. Designed to replicate a turn-of-the-century Kansas family farm, it features animals, gardens, a one-room schoolhouse, and various agricultural displays. During the fall season, this already picturesque venue transforms into Pumpkin Hollow, a lively destination that celebrates everything autumn has to offer.
Fall Decor and Farm Vibes
From the moment guests enter the farmstead, they’re surrounded by festive decorations like hay bales, corn stalks, gourds, and of course, pumpkins of all sizes. The entire area is filled with the scent of straw and crisp autumn air, creating a nostalgic and comforting environment for families and children. The warm, rustic aesthetic of the farm makes it the perfect backdrop for seasonal photos and cherished memories.
Activities at Pumpkin Hollow
The centerpiece of the fall festivities, Pumpkin Hollow offers a wide variety of activities suited for all ages. Children and adults alike can participate in classic fall games and explore a pumpkin patch brimming with vibrant orange pumpkins just waiting to be picked.
Key Attractions
- Pumpkin Patch: Guests can pick their own pumpkin from a wide selection, with small and large options for every budget and decorating idea.
- Hayrides: Enjoy a relaxing hayride around the farmstead, offering scenic views of the decorated grounds and playful scarecrows.
- Corn Maze: A small, kid-friendly maze designed for younger explorers to navigate safely with their parents.
- Photo Stations: Seasonal backdrops and themed cutouts for memorable family pictures.
All activities are designed with families in mind, ensuring that even toddlers can participate safely and enjoyably. Friendly staff are available throughout to help guide guests and ensure a smooth, fun experience for everyone.
Educational Opportunities
In keeping with Deanna Rose’s mission to provide educational value through farm life, Pumpkin Hollow includes several learning components. These experiences are woven seamlessly into the fun, giving children the chance to engage with nature and agriculture.
Learning Through Play
- Discover the life cycle of pumpkins and how they grow from seeds to harvest.
- Learn about the roles of scarecrows, hay, and other fall farm tools.
- Meet farm animals such as goats, cows, and chickens, and learn how farmers care for them during different seasons.
Interactive signs and knowledgeable volunteers help explain farming concepts in ways that are easy for children to understand, making Pumpkin Hollow as enriching as it is entertaining.
Food and Refreshments
No fall event is complete without delicious seasonal treats, and Pumpkin Hollow delivers with a variety of food vendors and concession stands offering classic autumn snacks. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, salty, or warm, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Popular Fall Treats
- Hot apple cider
- Fresh popcorn and kettle corn
- Caramel apples
- Pumpkin donuts and pastries
Visitors are also welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks, especially if they plan to spend several hours exploring the entire farmstead. Picnic tables and grassy areas make it easy to relax and refuel.
Planning Your Visit
To get the most out of your visit to Pumpkin Hollow, it’s best to plan ahead. The event runs daily during October and is weather-dependent, so checking the farmstead’s calendar for updates is always a good idea.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid long lines and get first pick of pumpkins.
- Dress comfortably with closed-toe shoes for walking around the farm.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture your family’s experience.
- Purchase tickets in advance if available to skip wait times at the entrance.
Admission fees to Pumpkin Hollow generally cover all main activities, although some extras like pumpkin purchases or food may be an additional cost.
Community and Family Traditions
One of the most cherished aspects of Pumpkin Hollow is how it brings families and communities together. For many, a visit to Deanna Rose in October is a yearly tradition passed down through generations. Children who once rode the haywagon or picked pumpkins as toddlers return years later with their own kids to continue the tradition.
Why Families Love Pumpkin Hollow
- Safe, family-focused environment
- Plenty of open space to explore and play
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff
- Memorable seasonal experiences for all ages
The farm’s commitment to offering wholesome family fun is evident in every detail, from the thoughtfully planned attractions to the warm hospitality extended to every guest.
Volunteering and Community Support
Pumpkin Hollow also provides volunteer opportunities for local residents who want to support the farm and its mission. Volunteers help with setup, greeting guests, running activities, and maintaining the pumpkin patch. Their efforts ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits.
How to Get Involved
- Apply to be a seasonal volunteer through the Deanna Rose website
- Donate pumpkins, decorations, or supplies
- Encourage local schools and organizations to plan educational trips
Community involvement is a key reason why Pumpkin Hollow remains one of the most successful and beloved fall events in the Kansas City area.
Pumpkin Hollow at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead is more than just a pumpkin patch it’s an immersive seasonal experience filled with joy, discovery, and tradition. From the hayrides and festive decorations to educational moments and autumn treats, every corner of the farm offers something special for guests of all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or a yearly ritual, Pumpkin Hollow is a celebration of fall that leaves lasting memories and keeps the spirit of community alive.