A popular pumpkin patch will return to a church in east Ocala later this week.
The Ocala Pumpkin Patch will have its grand opening on Friday, October 11, at the Ocala First United Methodist Church, which is located at 1126 E. Silver Springs Boulevard.
The patch will be open Monday through Friday, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. through October 31.
The pumpkin patch offers photo spots and family activities on select nights.
The grand opening on October 11 will feature balloon twisting, face painting, inflatables, and food trucks (Kona Ice, Grumpy’s Ice Cream, BigLees, and Kelley’s Pizza) from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday, October 13, the patch will enjoy the taste of Fall with catering by La Casella from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, October 18, the patch will host a movie night from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. that features a drive-in showing of Muppets Haunted Mansion and free popcorn. Big City Pizza and Grumpy’s Ice cream food trucks will also be on site.
Saturday, October 19, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the organization will offer all visitors a free piece of pie to celebrate pumpkin pie night.
Sunday, October 27, the group will celebrate pot luck night at the patch, inviting all visitors to bring their favorite dishes and participate in a community meal at 6 p.m.
All proceeds from the Ocala Pumpkin Patch benefit the Women’s ministry of Open Arms.