El Paso Area Pumpkin Patches to Open with COVID Safety Protocols

For many in the Borderland, the best part of a pick-your-own-pumpkin adventure at the area corn maze fields is the gleeful ride to the pumpkin patch.

But this year, La Union Maze won’t be offering tractor-pulled wagon rides and the Mesilla Valley Maze hayrides to their field of pumpkins have been put on hold as well. Casualties, as I'm sure you've already guessed, of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting restrictions New Mexico Governor Michelle Grisham has put in place to help contain its spread.

The new protocols mean those wanting to choose the perfect gourd for carving and decorating will have to go about it differently. Here is how the governor’s mandate will affect the two popular fall-time destinations up the road in the Land of Enchantment.

La Union Maze, La Union New Mexico - 1101 Hwy. 28 (Mesilla Ave)

• Guests will be allowed to venture to the pick-your-own pumpkin patch, but will have to get there in their own vehicles. Online reservations will be required.

• Other pumpkin purchasing options include buying already picked pumpkins from the farm’s storefront in person, or purchasing online.

• Pumpkin sales will take place on weekends only beginning Friday, September 25.

Mesilla Valley Maze, Las Cruces New Mexico - 3855 W Picacho Ave

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to pick you own pumpkins off the vine out in the field, but you'll still be able to choose your own pumpkins from the Country Store, which will have pumpkins available for purchase. Pumpkin sales will take place on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the month of October with no admission fee.