Celebrate fall in Monterey County this October with fun-filled family-friendly pumpkin patches and fall festivals around the destination. From haunted houses, pumpkin towers, corn mazes, and costume contests there is something for everyone to enjoy this time of year. Don’t forget to satisfy that pumpkin spice craving at one of the coffee shops around the County.
Pumpkin Patches
Known for its giant pumpkins and pumpkin pyramid, this farm is a must-see! With 50 varieties of pumpkins, squash, and gourds, you will be sure to find the perfect pumpkin. Don’t forget to check out the 5-acre corn maze and lots of different farm animals.
Cardinale & Wright Pumpkin Patch
Located at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, there is a one-stop shop for all types of pumpkins, gourds, and other harvest-décor!
Pick your perfect pumpkin at the area’s only certified organic specialty pumpkin patch! Pumpkins are grown right at the farm and are ready to bring the fall vibes to your home. While you’re there, don’t forget to explore the farm and walk around the different gardens on the property.
Choose from a variety of pumpkins, visit the hay maze, and ride the cow train or the hayride! On your way out, visit the Farm store and Farm Bakery to pick up some sweet treats such as pies, cookies, and more! The Farm is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Take your family for a fun-filled day at this pumpkin patch! From mini pumpkins to big pumpkins, the possibilities are endless! Check out the corn maze and other family-friendly autumn attractions like the tractor ride and many photo-ops around the Patch. Also, make sure to bring your appetite because there are a variety of food vendors ready to take orders.
Fall Festivals
Fall Round-Up by the California Rodeo Salinas is back! This event will be held at the Salinas Sports Complex from October 12 - October 15. Bring your family to enjoy the carnival, pumpkin patch, food, games, music, and more fall festivities! Bring the kids in their best costumes to participate in the costume contest held daily.
Halloween on the Wharf: Trick or Treat by the Bay
Monterey Old Fisherman’s Wharf will hold its 5th annual Halloween on the Wharf on October 31. This is a fun, family-friendly event. Look forward to trick or treating at participating merchants, a witch at Candy World for photo ops, and a Halloween DJ playing some spooky tunes. Make sure to dress to impress and enter the costume contest to win a cash prize!
Every Friday and Saturday night between October 13 - October 28 the Monterey County Fair & Event Center will have a Museum of Horrors Walk-Through! Produced by the Artichoke Festival in collaboration with Escape Room 831, movie fanatics at the recommended age of 12 and up will be able to experience a trip down memory lane with their most skin-crawling, worst movie theatre memories.
5 Best Coffee Shops and Bakeries for Pumpkin Spice + Fall Flavors
Pumpkin Spice and everything nice is the mantra this time of year! We have officially entered the festive seasonal drink and pastry season! Visit one or all of these 5 bakeries/coffee shops to satisfy your seasonal sweet craving!
Ad Astra recently opened its new location in downtown Monterey. They serve up fresh sourdough bread along with delicious baked goods and coffee.
Captain + Stoker’s seasonal menu is available with a few different fall options! Try the Leg Warmer Latte which has espresso, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, with any choice of milk. Find the full seasonal menu here.
Enjoy the comforting atmosphere and delicious bites at East Village Café. One of their buttery croissants or plant-based breakfast sandwiches pairs nicely with their pumpkin spice latte that has double shots of organic espresso, and a house blend pumpkin spice mix.
The fall seasonal menu is back! Enjoy a nice cup of the fan favorite, Pumpkin Spice Latte or try another seasonal drink, the maple latte or the pumpkin maple latte at one of their locations in Salinas or Carmel.
Wild Plum Café serves breakfast and lunch offering local organic sourced food. Try one of their handmade bakery items or enjoy a nice hot or iced cup of coffee. Seasonal menu coming soon.
