Wasson Farm Market’s Fall Fest is still on, but with a few changes in store this year

Summertime celebrations, from graduations to Independence Day, looked a little different this year, and similar changes will continue on into the fall season for many families. Orchards, farms and pumpkin patches around Centre County will be making some adjustments to how they accommodate families looking for fall festivities in the coming months, in an effort to limit COVID-19 risks while still retaining the fun that many find quintessential to their autumn experience.

For the past two decades, Wasson Farm Market in State College has offered a popular Fall Fest and, while the business still plans to offer its fall activities, Candy Wasson says changes to the event format are necessary.

“We will still be holding our Fall Fest that we have been doing for 20 years, it will just be a little different. This year we are opening the pumpkin patch for three weekends instead of two to help spread out and accommodate everyone. We are increasing the number of hayride wagons running, so that fewer people are on each wagon and can maintain a safe distance. There will be designated members of our staff circulating throughout the farm to sanitize areas frequently. Most of the event is outdoors, but we encourage everyone to follow the Department of Health’s guidance and, when a safe distance can’t be maintained, to wear face coverings,” she said. “Some people come to our Fall Fest just for our homemade soups, apple butter and baked goods. For people who are looking to purchase those items and do not wish to venture to our Fall Fest, we will be taking pre-orders on our Facebook page or by calling the farm. We are scheduling a Friday pick-up for these pre-ordered items.”

For Wasson Farm Market, though, these changes are just a few in a series of other adjustments that the business has been forced to make over the last year.

“This summer, due to COVID, we had to change how we typically conduct business at our produce market,” Wasson said. “The market has been operating on self-service for the summer, so that our customers had a contactless experience while picking up fresh produce on the farm. Also, when COVID struck we were in the middle of opening a new ice cream business on the farm. Because of the shut-downs, we were delayed from our original opening date in April and couldn’t open until the end of July.”

However, for the most part, many orchards, farms and others engaged in the local food and agricultural scene are optimistic that many outdoor fall activities will still remain an enjoyable part of families’ seasons.

“Being outside and enjoying the fall season can still be done. Large open spaces allow you to maintain a safe distance. Our pumpkin patch is almost 30 acres, with the farm overall spanning 100 acres. Our patch and other pick-your-own establishments have the space to open our personal havens during this time of unease to everyone in our community to enjoy the fall season,” Wasson said.

This story was originally published September 13, 2020 at 9:00 AM.