Northwest Land & Cattle opens pumpkin patch for fall fun

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — Northwest Land & Cattle’s third annual pumpkin patch opened over the weekend. The fifth-generation cattle farm invites families to enjoy fun fall activities in a setting that celebrates North Carolina agriculture and the importance of supporting small, local farmers.

Owned and operated by AJ Stanaland, the farm has expanded in recent years from a storefront into a space for community-centered events. Stanaland says she created the pumpkin patch as a way to help kids and families experience farm life firsthand, and to spark conversations about how food is grown and who grows it.

This year’s patch includes a wide variety of pumpkins, more than 10 kid-friendly activities, and fall photo spots like the brand-new pumpkin arch. Seasonal drinks like apple slushies and pumpkin spice cold brew are available at the Grain Bin Bar, while hand-dipped ice cream and baked goods can be found at the Chuck Wagon kitchen. The Pack House, the farm’s on-site store, will be open with pasture-raised meats and fresh local produce.

Admission is free and the patch is pet-friendly. Hours are Thursday and Friday from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live music and local vendors will be added starting the weekend of Sept. 27–28 through the end of October.

More information, including a full event calendar, is available here.