So you’re in Chicago and want to go pumpkin picking? Awesome! We have assembled a short list of places that have either a pick-your-own pumpkin farm or where you can buy direct from the farmers.

Some are far off and some are close, but most are located in the ‘burbs. As usual call first for hours of operation. First up is…

1. Siegel Cottonwood Farm (in Crest Hill) – Here you’ll find the annual Pumpkin Fest, which from the looks of it is pretty HUGE. Everything from hay rides to pumpkin patches to VeggieLand, and a corn and straw maize await you and your family. Lots to see and do in this what could turn out to be your new family Fall tradition.

Open from September 26th to November 1st admission is $12 for adults and those over 3 years of age, kids under 2 are free. Parking is also FREE.

Phone#: 1-800-304-3276

2. Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm (in Homer Glen) – This one is also pretty popular and has lots of activities and events as part of its own Pumpkin Fest including Pig Races, life size “Essie and Bessie” simulated milking cows, a crazy giant corn maize, train ride, flying frogs ride (whoa!), and lots more. A rocking good time for sure if you’re in the south burbs, as this one is found in Homer Glen.

Open daily from September 26th to October 31st.

Phone # 1-708-301-3276

Other notable pumpkin farms are below, each one is different and located throughout the state of Illinois. Visit their websites or call for more information.

Hope you and your family have a BLAST picking pumpkins in Chicago. Enjoy!

• Goebbert’s (in Lincolnshire South Barrington)
• Scarecrow Fest (in St. Charles)
• Children’s Farm (in Palos Park)

Pumpkins make great soup, pie, and other delicious comfort foods and there’s no better time in Chicago to buy fresh pumpkins than now!

P.S. Be sure to take advantage of the $1.oo off coupon some farms have on their websites.