Tuesday, September 17, 2024 / by Maria Sims
Celebrate Fall Y'all: Apple Picking and Pumpkin Patch Fun in North Georgia
Hey y'all! Fall has finally graced us with its sweet presence, and there's no better way to soak up this glorious season than with some good old-fashioned apple picking and pumpkin patch adventures. North Georgia is famous for its stunning fall foliage and charming farms. Here's your guide to the best apple and pumpkin spots that'll have you feeling all the fall vibes!
Apple Picking Adventures
Nothing tastes better than a crisp, juicy apple picked fresh off the tree. North Georgia’s apple orchards are the perfect places to make some sweet memories with family and friends. From sipping fresh cider to munching on apple fritters, you’ll be in autumn heaven!
Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge: Mercier Orchards has been serving up apple goodness since 1943. Their U-pick events are a must-do, with a wide variety of apples to choose from like Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Pink Lady. Don’t forget to swing by the market for their famous fried pies and fresh-pressed cider. It's so good!
BJ Reece Orchards, Ellijay: This family-friendly orchard is where the apple fun never ends. With over 20 apple varieties to pick from, you’ll be filling your basket in no time. They’ve got all sorts of activities to keep the kiddos (and the young at heart) entertained—think farm tours, wagon rides, a petting zoo, and even an apple cannon.
R & A Orchards, Ellijay: For a laid-back apple-picking experience with a side of stunning mountain views, head to R & A Orchards. Hop on a wagon ride through the orchard and soak up the sights. Afterward, treat yourself to some homemade jams, jellies, and baked goods from their farm market.
Pumpkin Patch Fun
Looking to find the perfect pumpkin? Whether you’re planning to carve a spooky jack-o'-lantern or just need some pumpkins for decorating your front porch, North Georgia's pumpkin patches have got you covered.
Burt's Pumpkin Farm, Dawsonville: If you're looking for the ultimate pumpkin patch experience, Burt's is the place to be. This farm is bursting with pumpkins in every size and shape imaginable. After you find your perfect pumpkin, hop on a hayride through the scenic countryside. And while you're there, snag some of their gorgeous fall decorations—corn stalks, gourds, you name it!
Uncle Shuck's Pumpkin Patch, Dawsonville: Famous for its giant corn maze, Uncle Shuck's is fall fun central! The pumpkin patch is brimming with pumpkins just waiting to be picked. Feeling brave? Try the haunted trail walk for a spooky twist on your autumn adventure. Then, cozy up by the bonfire with some s'mores.
Warbington Farms, Cumming: This spot is a pumpkin-picking dream come true. Warbington Farms’ Fall Farm Fun event is perfect for the whole family. There's a pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, a petting zoo, and so much more. The kiddos will love it, and you'll get the cutest fall photos to remember the day by.
Fall Festivals and Events
Autumn in North Georgia isn't complete without a fall festival. These festivals combine the best of apple picking, pumpkin patch fun, live music, and delicious treats all in one. Come out and enjoy with family and friends!
Georgia Apple Festival, Ellijay: Y'all, this is the apple event of the year! Held over two weekends in October 10/12-1/13 & 10/19-10/20, the Georgia Apple Festival is a celebration of everything apples. There are craft vendors, live music, food galore, and apple goodies everywhere you turn. It's the perfect way to celebrate the apple harvest and kick off the fall season in style.
Hillcrest Orchards' Apple Pickin' Jubilee, Ellijay: Every weekend in September and October, Hillcrest Orchards rolls out the apple-red carpet with their Apple Pickin' Jubilee. U-pick apples, pig races, cow milking, and a petting zoo. It's wholesome family fun, wrapped up in the crisp air and colorful leaves of autumn. You can take advantage of all the fun through November 30th.
Some Helpful Tips:
Check Ahead: Make sure to check the orchard or farm's website for picking schedules and event times.
Dress for Success: Comfy shoes and layers are your friends! Fall weather can be unpredictable.
Bring Your Own Bags: While some places provide bags, bringing your own reusable ones is always a good idea.
North Georgia is just a hop, skip & a jump away with Fall fun just waiting for you! Whether you're plucking apples straight from the tree, hunting for that perfect pumpkin, or just soaking up the sights and smells of the season, there’s no better place to celebrate fall than in our beautiful mountains.