Pumpkin Patches Near Ocala, Florida: Your Complete Fall Guide
This is a things to do news article published on 2025-10-10 covering local Marion County, Florida news. From church patch pop-ups to full fall festivals with hayrides and corn mazes, here's where to find pumpkins in and around Ocala this autumn.
Fall in Ocala brings cooler weather, football season, and the annual tradition of pumpkin hunting. While Marion County may not have the crisp autumn air of the northeast, it has something better: genuine fall fun without the crowds. Here are the best pumpkin patches and fall festivals in and around the Ocala area.
Next Church Pumpkin Patch
Address: 8070 SW 60th Ave, Ocala, FL 34476
Hours: Daily 10 AM–9 PM (opens mid-October)
A beloved annual tradition on Ocala's southwest side, the Next Church pumpkin patch stocks pumpkins, gourds, and adorable mini pumpkins at prices starting at just $4. The patch is operated as a community fundraiser and draws families from across Marion County looking for affordable, convenient fall fun. The long daily hours make it easy to stop by after school or work throughout October.
Ocala First United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch
Address: 1126 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL 34470
Dates: October 17–31
Hours: Mon–Thu 4–7 PM, Fri 4–8 PM, Sat 10 AM–8 PM, Sun 11 AM–8 PM
One of Ocala's most popular seasonal traditions, the First United Methodist Church pumpkin patch has been filling front porches across Marion County for years. Located on Silver Springs Boulevard near downtown, this patch includes special events throughout the run — including an opening night celebration on October 17th with live praise bands and kids' activities. Weekend hours allow for leisurely family browsing, and the central location makes it a natural stop after dinner in downtown Ocala.
Cannon Farms Fall Festival (Dunnellon)
Address: 11801 SW 180th Ave, Dunnellon, FL 34432
Season: Late September through early November
Hours: Fri–Sat 10 AM–6 PM, Sun 10 AM–4 PM
About 25 miles west of Ocala near Dunnellon, Cannon Farms is the most comprehensive fall festival experience in the region. Beyond the pumpkin patch, the property features hayrides, a petting zoo, a corn maze, a haunted corn maze, a haunted trail, skeeball, a football toss, and concessions. For families looking for a full day of fall activities rather than just a patch to pick from, Cannon Farms is the destination. The longer drive is worth it for the experience.
AAA Plant Depot
Address: 6736 NE 36th Ave, Ocala, FL 34479
On Ocala's northeast side, AAA Plant Depot transforms into a full fall destination each October with a pumpkin patch, corn maze, haunted corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, a haunted ride, haunted trail, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, and concessions. The breadth of activities makes this a solid choice for families wanting a local option that doesn't require driving to Dunnellon.
Tips for Pumpkin Patch Visits in Ocala
- Church patches typically run mid-to-late October only — plan ahead
- Bring cash to smaller patches; card readers aren't always available
- Visit on weekday evenings for smaller crowds
- October weather in Ocala is usually beautiful — highs in the low-to-mid 80s, low humidity
- Combine a pumpkin patch visit with dinner in downtown Ocala or a drive through the countryside
Explore more fall and seasonal activities on our things to do in Ocala guide and check our events calendar for additional October happenings throughout Marion County.