As the cool autumn weather sets in, a popular way to celebrate the season is by visiting a local apple orchard or pumpkin patch. These destinations offer the opportunity to hand-pick fruits for baking, choose pumpkins for carving, and capture picturesque moments amidst the orchards and fields. Many farms also feature additional attractions like corn mazes, petting zoos, and wagon rides, making them ideal for families and those on a budget.
The apple season typically spans from late August to October, while pumpkins are usually ripe for picking from mid-September onwards. It is advisable to check the websites and social media of local farms for the most current information on fruit availability, especially if you have specific preferences.
Here are ten charming locations across Canada to explore this fall:
1. Ferme Genest – Lévis, Quebec: This farm offers a vast expanse of pumpkins and various apple varieties, along with farm animals, a playground, and artisanal treats for sale.
2. Dixie Orchards – Inglewood, Ontario: Located near Toronto, this farm provides a range of activities like a corn maze and tractor rides, in addition to apple, pumpkin, and hazelnut picking.
3. Prairie Gardens – Bon Accord, Alberta: Just north of Edmonton, visitors can harvest potatoes, apples, and pumpkins, including specialty varieties like Grey Ghost and Sugar Pie, as well as enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences.
4. Davison Orchards – Vernon, British Columbia: A family-friendly farm where you can pick apples, pumpkins, and spaghetti squash, take a tractor tour of the apple orchard, and let children interact with farm animals.
5. RiverBreeze Farm – Upper Onslow, Nova Scotia: This farm hosts various fall events, offering pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and opportunities to meet kangaroos.
6. Verger Belliveau Orchard – Memramcook, New Brunswick: With over 110,000 apple trees, this orchard allows visitors to choose from 20 apple varieties, sample cider and wines, and enjoy live music and food trucks on select dates.
7. Lester’s Farm Market – St. John’s, Newfoundland: Featuring a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, including numerous pumpkin varieties, the farm hosts seasonal events like Pumpkinfest and a farm haunt.
8. Belvedere Orchard – Brookfield, Prince Edward Island: Offering stunning views and a variety of apples, this orchard is a picturesque spot to pick apples like Gala and Honeycrisp.
9. Albion Orchards – Caledon, Ontario: Located near Toronto, this farm offers apple and pumpkin picking, as well as a country store selling freshly baked goods and other treats.
10. Robertson Valley Farm – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: This farm provides a selection of orange pumpkins and decorative squash, with options for pre-picked or pick-your-own produce, including guidance on the different pumpkin types available.
Before planning your visit, it is recommended to check the specific opening dates and hours of each farm to ensure a memorable and enjoyable autumn experience.
