At last, it’s fall in the Lowcountry. The temperature outside has dropped below oppressively sweltering to a more forgiving climate, oyster season is upon us, and pumpkin spice is suddenly a main food group (for better or for worse).
October is the crown jewel of fall and one of the dreamiest months in the Lowcountry. This is due, in part, to the lower rain forecasts and dropping temperatures. The moderate climate creates the perfect environment for festivals and outdoor family events.
Although we don’t have much changing of the leaves and we won’t be completely abandoning cotton and linen for cashmere and cable knit sweaters, down here, we still celebrate fall with gusto.
Folks here have a love affair with October because we love a good party, we jump at any opportunity for forced family fun, and we live for the perfect photo op. These obsessions are why we go crazy for a good ol’ pumpkin patch and fall wagon ride. These events give us all the things we love: a good time, a place for family gatherings. and the opportunity to snag fun photos. The pumpkins and their accoutrements conveniently serve as props for post-worthy pics and make any family look like #squashgoals.
Now, if you despise anything pumpkin related or if pumpkin-spice makes your stomach churn, those feelings are fair. But even the most cynical pumpkin critic can’t argue that the true beauty of winter squash lies in their photogenic genius. For example, babies. Sure, they are cute, but perch a babe on a pumpkin and you’ve drastically dialed up the cuteness factor. Now you’ve got a yummy photo that everyone wants to see.
Fall photo opportunities this season are endless. October and the agritourism business invite us all to get creative. The basic khakis and white shirt beach photos of summer are behind us, and it’s time to accessorize with autumn’s bounty. Luckily, there are plenty of local pumpkin patches and wagon rides to assist in this venture.
So, throw your friends or family in flannel shirts, snag a few kids and/or pets, add some pumpkins, grab your phone, and get to work! Here are a handful of local events that will not disappoint.
Island Rec Pumpkin Patch
October 18, 4-7 p.m.
Shelter Cove Community Park
This event has become a beloved local tradition, and it’s free and open to the public. Your entrance includes access to the cutest Pumpkin Patch on the island, plus the littles will be able to choose from a variety of bounce houses and games. For an additional fee, you may purchase tickets to participate in the train ride, concessions, and rock wall.
The fun culminates with the Island Rec Center’s Costume Contest. Various categories include scariest, funniest, and most creative – this event is loaded with a million family photo opportunities.
Be on the lookout for the Island Rec Center staff – they take this competition very seriously and their group costume is always a crowd favorite. Joe Cain, special events director, loves this family friendly event and looks forward to it every year. As he explains, “Two words: Be there!”
Sea Pines Resort Wagon Rides
Full Moon Wagon Ride
October 17, 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Tickets $25 adult, $18 child (12 and under)
Halloween Wagon Ride
October 19, 26, 10-11 a.m.
Tickets $16 adult/$18 child (12 and under)
Sea Pines Resort offers several wagon rides in October. Looking for a unique Lowcountry experience? The Full Moon Wagon ride is for you! Explore the Sea Pines Forest Preserve after dark with the moon lighting the way. See how local nature and wildlife exist after the daily crowds have left. This is a special opportunity to experience a different kind of island nightlife.
Additionally, the popular Halloween Wagon Ride returns this month. Jump aboard the red wagon for a spooky ride through the Forest Preserve. It’s a perfect outing with kiddos, and there will be no shortage of photo opportunities as costumes are encouraged. Plus, enjoy Halloween themed games throughout the journey. All wagon rides require reservations.
Cahill’s Pumpkin Patch and Hay Pyramid
Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
Cahill’s Market, 1055 May River Road
The original “farm to table” staple in Bluffton will open its famous Pumpkin Patch October 1 and continue all month. Cahill’s is known for its homegrown seasonal produce and will be offering loads of autumnal goodies for everyone. Robbie Cahill said customers will be able to find “assorted gourds, pumpkins, Indian corn, wheat straw, cornstalks, mums and more!”
It would be a crime to leave Cahill’s without a family photoshoot in front of the giant pyramid made of hay. If you are looking for a true Southern fall experience, Cahill’s is the place.
Holiday Farms
October 4-31
Thursday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday, 12-6 p.m.
Tickets $15 per person (age 2 and up)
The Great Pumpkin Patch at Holiday Farms opened in 2008. Family owned and operated, Holiday Farms offers loads of activities for the entire family. Located in Ridgeland, this farm transports families to a fall wonderland that includes a giant outdoor jump pad, “Haytona” speedway, steer roping, duck races, corn maze and more. Guests hop aboard a covered wagon pulled by a large John Deere tractor to an adorable pumpkin patch filled with hundreds of gourds.
Tickets include one pumpkin per person and the train ride. Holiday Farms is brimming with photo opportunities; giant wooden farm animals and haystack vignettes are located throughout the property, providing the perfect backdrop for family photos.
