It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! That is the movie I’ve pretty much watched every October since I was a kid and also this year’s theme of the Pumpkin Village at the Dallas Arboretum! The Pumpkin Village always makes me feel like it’s finally, actually, officially Fall in Texas – even if it’s approximately 94 degrees outside, which I’m pretty sure was the case when I visited on the Media Preview day in mid-September. But it was worth braving the heat – this is an event I almost always attend, and have only missed a couple of times in the last decade.
Pumpkin Village at the Dallas Arboretum
For this post I want to share some of my favorite photos – these will hopefully make you want to visit, but if you can’t, you can at least feel like you did! 🙂 I’m also going to share everything you need to know to plan your trip to see the pumpkins at the Dallas Arboretum (which I hope will be especially helpful if you’re a first-timer!).
But first! Flashback to the Pumpkin Village, 2009, when I had a squishy little baby with me (I saved that hat and sweater vest and someday I hope to make a grandchild wear it, ha!).
When are the pumpkins at the Arboretum?
You can visit the Pumpkin Village from September 21, 2019 until October 31, 2019.
How many pumpkins are at the Arboretum?
90,000+. And in case you’re wondering what they do with them afterwards (I did), they get composted, donated to the Dallas Zoo, and turned into art!
When is the best time to visit the Arboretum and see the pumpkins?
This is entirely dependent on when you can make it, because any time is a good time! From experience, weekends are crazy – especially when the weather starts to cool off. So if you can visit during the week, or while it’s still hot, you’ll miss the crowds and have an easier time getting those photo ops in. Baby in a pumpkin hat, anyone (also a throwback!)?
Can I buy pumpkins at the Arboretum?
Yes – there is a pumpkin patch and you can purchase pumpkins. So the kiddos can pick out their very own pumpkin to take home!
Is there a place to eat at the Arboretum?
There are several casual dining options (personally, I love the seated tea service, but the requires a reservation and probably isn’t something I’d do with a toddler or small child as it’s $49/person and kinda fancy…but I probably go every couple years myself!).
When the weather cools off, I recommend bringing a picnic to eat on the lawn…there’s lots of room for the kids to run around and a gorgeous view of White Rock Lake!
What are the best photo ops at the Arboretum?
Speaking just of the pumpkin area…you’ll find an adorable, styled straw bench that makes a great photo op. But honestly? It’s all amazing. Just plop down in the pumpkins!
Is the Pumpkin Village kid-friendly?
YES. Definitely bring the kids! Not only will they enjoy the actual pumpkin village, but there are literally thousands of pumpkins throughout the entire Arboretum. And there is lots of room to run and play!
What activities for kids are taking place at the Arboretum?
Every Tuesday is Tiny Tots Tuesday, with a petting zoo, face painting, and other toddler-friendly activities. If you’re a stay-at-home mom looking for something to do, this is a great option (you’ll also be able to see the pumpkins and avoid the weekend crowds this way!). It’s free with general admission, and the kids love it.
What else is there to do near the Arboretum?
This time of year is fun because the State Fair or Texas is also taking place! The State Fair is near the Arboretum, and another fun option. You also have lots of local restaurants in the area. If you’ve got kids with you, I recommend The Lot, which is very close and also has a playground so the kids can burn off more energy (and play while you eat in peace, yay!).
You can see the full calendar of events and get your tickets online here (you can also buy tickets at the gate).
