With Halloween just days away, Connecticut residents are still making the pilgrimage to nearby pumpkin farms, choosing community and tradition over the modest price increase reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Local farms see steady crowds
At The Pickin’ Patch in Avon, families loaded wagons with pumpkins while the sun shone and the weather stayed pleasant. “It’s a beautiful day and the weather’s perfect. We live real close so it’s so easy to come here,” said Joy Stroup, a Simsbury resident.
Wilder Ebert of West Hartford echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of buying locally. “This is holistic. This is local. Buy local,” he said, noting that supporting nearby farms helps keep the community vibrant.
Prices rise but shoppers stay loyal
USDA figures indicate the average retail price of a pumpkin has risen to $5.36 this year, up from about $4.83 in September 2020 – an increase of roughly 11 percent. The owner of The Pickin’ Patch attributed the higher costs to rising fuel and fertilizer expenses, yet he is working hard to keep prices stable for customers.
Shoppers appreciate the effort. “We just want to support him as he tries to continue to be an important part of our community,” Stroup added. Ebert stressed that higher operating costs make community support even more critical. “These local farmers need it. With the costs that have gone up, it’s even more reason to come back and support your local farmers,” he said.
More than a purchase – a seasonal tradition
Beyond the economic angle, pumpkins remain a beloved part of Connecticut’s Halloween celebrations. Families use them for carving jack‑o‑lanterns, baking pies, or making bread, keeping the holiday spirit alive. “Because they’re fun. Because they remind you of your childhood. Because you can use your creativity in so many ways,” Ebert explained.
For many, the act of selecting the perfect pumpkin is as important as the final product. The experience of strolling through rows of orange gourds, sharing stories with neighbors, and supporting a local business creates a sense of community that transcends the modest price hike.
Looking ahead
As the season draws to a close, local farms hope the continued patronage will offset rising costs and ensure they can keep serving Connecticut families for years to come. The message from shoppers is clear: supporting home‑grown produce is worth the extra few dollars when it strengthens the fabric of the community.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
