It’s almost that time! The holiday quarter of the year is almost upon us, and I for one can’t wait. Every year we try to visit local farms and orchards for apple picking, pumpkin picking, and corn mazes. All of the kids are old enough to try a maze, and they’ve seen it enough times on Curious George to think that they can successfully guide us through one with a map. I’m game for letting them try. Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm is the perfect location to take them.
If you all are in the Chicagoland area anytime from September through October, you should take some time to check out these events at the Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm in Lockport, IL.
Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, Lockport, IL: Fall Events 2016
Sunday, September 11, 2016: 9/11 Remembrance – 15th Anniversary
The 15-acre cornfield at Siegel’s Farm in Lockport, IL is themed “In Remembrance of 9/11”. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the attack on U.S. soil, and how all people, of every color and religion, banded together to help save lives. We honor all First Responders for their bravery and sacrifices.
Saturday, September 17, 2016: Peanuts 50th Anniversary Maize, Military Appreciation Weekend
Sure to bring out the kid in all of us, Siegel’s Farm’s kid’s maize is cut in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”. The maze, which will feature Snoopy, covers two acres. In addition to the maze, Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm will host a special Military Appreciation Weekend, for members of the military, active duty or veteran, their spouses and children can visit Siegel’s Farm for free September 17 and 18.
Saturday, September 17, 2016: 26th Annual Pumpkin Fest Kickoff
Pumpkin Fest – “Affordable Fun on the Farm”® – is open daily 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. from September 17, including Columbus Day, through October 31st. The Siegel’s family welcomes all to come to the farm and harvest family memories. General admission tickets include more than 30 attractions, including: farm animals to pet and feed, 125’ Siegel’s Sports Zone, hayrack ride to the u-pick pumpkin field, haunted barn, train rides, slides and two cornfield mazes.
New attractions feature Kaden’s Birdie Barracks (a 4th playland) and Kiddie Zip Line. Pony rides, Lil’ Zombie Paintball Ride, Jumpin’ Blob Jamboree, Gem Mining, Climbing Wall and the Spooky Spiral are available for a small additional fee. An array of food will be available from smoked turkey legs to apple cider doughnuts to fresh baked pie slices. New food items have also been added.
Special events and appearances scheduled for Pumpkin Fest 2016 are Military Appreciation Weekend, 1st Responders Appreciation Weekend, Pumpkin Weigh-Off, Lumberjack Show, Juggler/Stiltwalker, Teacher appreciation Weekend, and Pumpkin Smash/Drop.
Pumpkin Fest Calendar
Sept 24th/25th 1st Responders Weekend – Free Admission to 1st Responders along with their spouse & children.
Sept 24th Pumpkin Weigh-Off – See local growers compete for largest giant pumpkin. Last year, a world record was set.
Sept 30th, Oct 1st/2nd The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show – 1st time in this area www.alaskanlumberjackshow.com
Oct 9th Juggling stilt walker and Pumpkin Princess story time (11am, 1 and 3pm)
Oct 15 Juggling stilt walker – (1 – 4 p.m.) and Pumpkin Princess story time (11am, 1 and 3pm)
Oct 16 Juggling stilt walker (1 – 4 p.m.) and Pumpkin Princess story time (11am, 1 and 3pm)
Oct 29th/30 Teacher Appreciation Weekend – Free admission for teachers
Oct 30th Pumpkin Smashing and Crane Drop – http://ourpumpkinfarm.com/attractions/annual-pumpkin-drop/
First Responder’s Weekend Sept 24 & 25
An additional time of giving back and paying tribute is 1st Responders Appreciation Weekend on Sept 24th/25th. First Responders along with their spouses and children will receive free admission. The Siegel’s feel it is everyone’s responsibility to respect and thank those who are fighting or have fought for our freedom and have dedicated their lives to our safety and well-being. So in doing their part, the Siegel’s have made these weekends a tradition of giving back!
More information on events at Siegel’s Farm can be found at www.OurPumpkinFarm.com
Location: Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm is located at 17250 S. Weber Road, Lockport, IL