While the forecast for the next week still says the Omaha area will be in the upper 80s to 90s, fall is right around the corner. One of the tell-tale signs of this is the opening of pumpkin patches. Vala’s Pumpkin Patch will kick-off its 39th season tonight with the annual Season Passholder Night.
This evening, Vala’s will be open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. exclusively for those who are current season pass holders, or those who plan to purchase a pass on site. Aside from tonight’s festivities, the official opening day for general admission will be Vala’s from Sept. 15 until the end of the evening on Halloween night, Oct. 31.
Whether guests want to try treats like apple cider donuts or caramel apples, ride the hay-rack ride out to the fields to pick a pumpkin off the vine, or navigate their way through the corn maze, Vala’s has a diverse selection of fall activities for people of all ages.
“It’s a really great place to hang out with friends, get your pumpkins, enjoy the fall weather and drink apple cider slushies,” freshman Kylee McWilliams said.
In addition to some of the traditional favorites listed above, a new tater tot stand, lemonade stand and a cut-flower garden where pumpkin patch guests can pick and cut their own bouquet of flowers will be new this year.
Even Vala’s employees say they are looking forward to the season getting underway.
“I am excited for this upcoming season,” Vala’s warehouse employee Dennis Lahm said. “I get to drive the gators around, see old friends of mine and get to see all of the new attractions added.”
Despite being located in Gretna, which is arguably a small town, Vala’s has proven to be successful and a staple fall attraction. Whether it be the new attractions added almost every year or the fan favorites, such as the corn maze, Vala’s keeps drawing their customers back. According to The Wire, Omaha Public Power District’s news website, Vala’s sees more than 300,000 visitors per year. This steady stream of visitors earned Vala’s a spot on the top five, non-state park, tourist attractions in the state of Nebraska.
“There are many places to hang out and just have fun,” sophomore Emma Montange said. “If you have a little one, it’s a good opportunity to have some family fun.”
