Big Mac's Patch ready for third season

Big Mac's Pumpkin Patch is ready to open for the 2021 season. The drought, heat and grasshoppers didn't stop the pumpkins from growing, but go early to ensure finding the perfect pumpkin. Due to hay shortage there will not be a bale maze this year, but other new activities have been added.

This year marks the third opening of the traditional pumpkin patch with several fun outdoor activities, a garden of pumpkins to pick from, delicious fall goodies, a large straw castle and hayrides. Added for this season are bouncing horse races, prairie golf, and haunted hayride scare nights.

The patch will be opening for the season on Saturday, September 25 and Sunday, September 26 with regular operating hours from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each weekend through October 31 (weather permitting). Watch for cancellations on Big Mac's facebook page.

The cover charge is $12 per person, or $50 per carload, which includes all activities. The patch is hoping to have a local photographer for fall family picture opportunities as well as delicious traditional pumpkin and fall snacks. Private parties for birthdays or groups can also be booked by calling Laurie at 406-778-2337.

Scheduled special events each weekend include:

September 25-26: Open Saturday and Sunday from 1 - 4 p.m. for kids. Hosting a special adults only festival beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

October 2-3: Open Saturday and Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m.

October 9-10: Open Saturday and Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. Pumpkin carving contest held on Sunday (bring your own tools).

October 16-17: Open Saturday and Sunday, face painting 1 - 4 p.m.

October 23-24: Open Saturday and Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m., Family Day, bring grandparents for free!

October 30-31: Open Saturday and Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m. (dress up & Trick-or-Treat)

Saturday, October 23 & 30: Special night scare events 7 - 10 p.m.

Big Mac's Patch is located at the Donald & Laurie MacKay Ranch, 23 miles north of Ekalaka and 5 miles west of Willard, at 316 Scorio Butte Rd. Roads signs will be posted.