Celebrate The Spirit Of Fall At The Great Pumpkin Patch In Arthur, Illinois

What began as a small family farm has blossomed into a fall destination that attracts thousands of pumpkin enthusiasts from across the Midwest.

With over 300 varieties of pumpkins, squash, and gourds from around the world, this 63-acre paradise offers much more than just your average pumpkin picking experience.

Mac Condill’s Family Legacy

The farm itself has deep roots going back to 1859, when it was first homesteaded by the McDonald family.

In 1977, Bruce and Mary Beth Condill planted their first pumpkins, unknowingly laying the foundation for what would later become TGPP.

Their son, Mac Condill, expanded the farm’s vision, and in 1989 the family opened the patch to the public. More than 30 years later, the Condills continue to nurture what they call a “living museum of cucurbits.”

A World of Pumpkins, Squash, and Gourds

The patch is renowned for its astonishing collection of over 300 varieties of pumpkins, squash, and gourds grown on the farm.

Visitors discover an incredible array of shapes, sizes, and colors – from deep blue Australian pumpkins to bumpy French heirlooms and miniature decorative gourds.

TGPP has gained national recognition for preserving rare and heirloom varieties, making it one of the most diverse displays of cucurbits in the country.

The Homestead Bakery’s Famous Treats

Your nose will lead you straight to this charming bakery where the scent of fresh-baked pumpkin goodness fills the air.

Amish bakers create mouthwatering pumpkin rolls, cookies, and bread daily. Their pumpkin donuts have reached legendary status among regular visitors. Many families make a tradition of taking home these treats to enjoy long after their visit ends.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Beyond the pumpkins, the farm offers a variety of family-friendly features during its September–October season.

Wagon rides, gardens, mazes, farm animals, and beautiful displays encourage visitors to spend the day exploring.

Rustic wooden wagons piled high with gourds make for memorable photo opportunities, and the wide-open farmland showcases the beauty of Illinois in autumn.

Educational Opportunities

TGPP also welcomes schools and groups for fall field trips. Children learn about farming, plant life cycles, and the importance of agricultural diversity.

These visits give students a hands-on look at where food comes from and why preserving seed varieties matters.

Educational School Tours

Yellow school buses line the parking lot weekday mornings as local students embark on unforgettable field trips.

Kids learn about plant life cycles while getting their hands dirty in interactive demonstrations. Mac Condill himself often leads these tours, sharing his encyclopedic knowledge of cucurbits with wide-eyed youngsters.

Teachers praise these visits for making science and agriculture come alive beyond textbook pages.