The Definitive 2026 Guide: 7 Must-Visit Pumpkin Patches And Fall Harvest Events In Williston, ND
Planning your ultimate autumn adventure in Williston, North Dakota, requires insider knowledge, especially when looking for the perfect pumpkin. As of December 23, 2025, the highly successful 2025 fall harvest season has officially concluded, but the detailed information from this past year serves as the definitive guide for what to expect for the next spectacular fall in 2026. Williston offers a surprising array of seasonal fun, from traditional farm experiences to unique community events that draw visitors from across Williams County and the entire MonDak region.
The Williston area transforms into a vibrant hub of harvest activity every fall, with local farms and the Parks and Recreation District hosting a variety of family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re looking for a classic U-Pick experience, a thrilling corn maze, or a truly unique seasonal event, this guide covers the essential destinations and hidden gems that define the Williston fall experience, setting the stage for an even better 2026 season.
The Premier Fall Destinations: Cottonwood Forest and Amber Brooke Farms
Williston’s reputation as a fall destination is largely built on its two biggest and most established farm attractions, which consistently deliver a full day of family entertainment. Based on their established 2025 and 2024 schedules, these are the essential stops for any pumpkin enthusiast.
Cottonwood Forest Pumpkin Patch: The Classic Williston Experience
For many Williston residents and visitors, the name Cottonwood Forest is synonymous with fall fun. This destination is more than just a place to pick a pumpkin; it's a full-scale harvest festival experience that has become a local favorite.
- The Pumpkin Field: A massive selection of pumpkins, gourds, and squash, perfect for carving, decorating, and baking.
- The Corn Maze: A challenging and expansive maze that provides a great activity for families and groups looking for a seasonal challenge.
- The Thrills: A standout feature is the thrilling Zip Line, allowing visitors to soar over the crisp autumn air and take in the farm's landscape.
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Younger children love diving into the massive Corn Box, a unique twist on a traditional sandbox, along with hayrides and other farm games.
- The Haunt at Cottonwood Forest: For those seeking a spooky experience, the farm hosts a separate haunted attraction. This addition transforms the patch into a dual-purpose venue, catering to both daytime family fun and nighttime scares.
- Typical Schedule: Based on the 2024 season, the patch typically operates on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 7 pm, usually starting in late September and running through the third weekend of October.
Amber Brooke Farms Williston Fall Festival: A Full-Scale Harvest Celebration
Amber Brooke Farms has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination, celebrating its 6th Annual Fall Festival in 2025. While the 2025 season is over, the farm is already anticipating the 2026 return, promising another spectacular event.
This festival is known for its wide variety of attractions beyond the traditional pumpkin patch, making it a comprehensive fall experience.
- Pumpkin Patch Access: While the farm offers access to the patch, pumpkins are typically available for purchase separately.
- U-Pick Opportunities: The festival often includes access to Sunflower Fields, providing a beautiful backdrop for photos and a chance to pick your own bouquet.
- Farm Environment: Visitors should be prepared to park and walk in grass, as the farm is a working agricultural site, adding to the authentic harvest feel.
- Anticipated 2026 Dates: The 2025 festival started in late September, suggesting the 2026 event will follow a similar weekend schedule, running from late September through the end of October.
Unique Williston Fall Attractions and Seasonal Entities
Beyond the major farm attractions, the Williston community, through its Parks & Recreation District and local organizations, offers several unique and memorable fall events that add to the region's topical authority for autumn fun. These events provide a contrast to the rustic farm experience and are a testament to the city's commitment to community engagement.
The Floating Pumpkin Patch: A Williston Parks & Recreation Original
One of Williston’s most distinct seasonal events is the Floating Pumpkin Patch, hosted by the Williston Parks & Recreation District. This is a one-of-a-kind autumn adventure that moves the pumpkin picking experience from the field to the water.
- The Concept: Pumpkins are floated in a pool, and participants (both kids and adults) get to wade in and "harvest" their perfect pumpkin from the water.
- Target Audience: The event is designed to be fun for all ages, offering a unique seasonal twist on pool time.
- Recurring Nature: This event is a staple of the Parks & Recreation District's seasonal programming, which runs from September to December, ensuring its likely return in 2026.
Mayhenm Ranch Fall U-Pick Pumpkin Patch
While often mentioned in local event listings, Mayhenm Ranch provides another option for those seeking a more traditional U-Pick experience near Williston. As a recurring entity in the area’s fall landscape, it offers another opportunity to explore the rural side of the MonDak region and support local agriculture.
Planning Your 2026 Williston Fall Harvest Trip
To maximize your fall visit to Williston, it is crucial to plan around the expected annual events and the broader seasonal context of North Dakota.
Key Seasonal Entities and LSI Keywords for Your Trip
The fall season in Williston is not just about pumpkins; it's a celebration of harvest, community, and the North Dakota landscape. Incorporating these other local entities will enrich your experience and provide a more complete seasonal picture:
- Williston Downtowners Association: The Downtowners are responsible for many vibrant community events, including the popular Crazy Days, which set a lively tone for the fall season.
- Williston State College: The college often hosts cultural events, such as the Quilting Art, History, and Tradition showcase, which typically takes place in October and highlights local craftsmanship.
- North Dakota Pheasant Hunting Season: For outdoor enthusiasts, the start of the pheasant hunting season is a major annual event. In 2025, the season opened on October 11, which is a key date to note when planning a late-fall trip that combines pumpkin patch visits with other outdoor activities.
- Williston Fall Craft and Vendor Show: Typically held in September, this event offers a chance to purchase local crafts and goods, perfect for early holiday shopping or finding unique seasonal decor.
- Williston CVB (Convention & Visitors Bureau): The CVB is an excellent resource for up-to-date information on all autumn events and attractions in the area, helping visitors embrace the "enchanting hues of autumn in Williston, ND."
Anticipated 2026 Logistics and Topical Authority
Based on the consistent patterns of the 2024 and 2025 seasons, visitors planning for 2026 should keep the following in mind:
Timing: The peak pumpkin patch season in Williston runs from the last weekend of September through the third or fourth weekend of October. To ensure you catch the Floating Pumpkin Patch and the best farm events, aim for a weekend visit in early to mid-October.
Pricing: While specific admission prices vary, expect to pay a general admission or entry fee for the major farm attractions like Cottonwood Forest and Amber Brooke Farms. Pumpkins are typically priced by weight or size and purchased separately from the admission fee.
Weather: North Dakota weather can be unpredictable in the fall. Dressing in layers and wearing appropriate footwear (especially for the working farms like Cottonwood Forest) is essential for a comfortable harvest experience.
The Williston, ND, pumpkin patch scene is robust, offering everything from classic corn mazes and U-Pick fields to innovative community events like the Floating Pumpkin Patch. By planning ahead using the established patterns of the recently concluded 2025 season, visitors can look forward to another unforgettable fall harvest in 2026, solidifying Williston's role as a top North Dakota autumn destination.
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