How many acres is Vala’s Pumpkin Patch?

152 acres

How many acres of pumpkins are planted?

52 acres of pumpkins

What other crops are planted on the Vala farm?

Along with pumpkins, Tim Vala plants Indian Corn, Gourds, and Chrysanthemums, all fall crops. Different sections of farmland are also outsourced to a different farmer to provide an adequate rotation schedule for pumpkins. This farmer plants corn and soybeans.

Does Vala’s grow / sell strawberries?

No – Strawberries were the first pick-your-own crop that Vala’s offered, back in 1983. For a few years, we were named “Vala’s Easy Pickins’ Farm,” but in 1986 we changed our focus to pumpkins and concentrated on developing an entertainment attraction.

Does Vala’s grow / sell apples?

Yes – In 2001, Vala’s planted a 1 acre orchard of 350 apple trees on the far south side of the farm. The Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious apple trees took three years to reach maturation, and last year produced their first significant crop. Long term plans for expansion include renovating the barns next to the orchard to create a bakery, fudge shop, and educational display. We will then open in early September to offer a pick-your-own apple experience for families and school groups.

What varieties of pumpkins does Vala’s grow?

Tim Vala chooses a diverse mixture of pumpkin varieties in order to offer a large selection of pumpkins with many different characteristics. He makes sure to plant very small pumpkins, very large pumpkins, and every size, color, shape, density, and stem length in between.

What variety is best for making Pumpkin Pies / Pumpkin Seeds?

Some experts say that white pumpkins make the best tasting Pumpkin Pie. Visit the Vala Sisters’ recipe section for more information on using fresh pumpkin in regular recipes and toasting your own pumpkin seeds.

When are pumpkins planted?

Tim Vala plants the pumpkins in June in order to have them mature in late September.

Any advice for growing pumpkins at home?

The main trouble that home growers have with pumpkins is that they tend to take over a garden, or even a yard. They’re a vine crop that requires a lot of room to spread out. Also, don’t plant them too early or you’ll have ripe pumpkins in August.

What attractions are included with the admissions price?

General admission includes: Hayrack Ride to the Pumpkin Field, Pumpkin Eating Dragon Show, Pigtuckey Derby Pig Racing Show, Pumpkin Cannon Show, Scarecrow Band, Howl-at-the-Moon Stage Shows (when scheduled), Pirate Maze, Lost Pumpkin Mine, Haunted Farmhouse, Spook Shed, Play Areas, Bunnyville, Graveyard Golf, Storybook Barn, Petting Corral, Peddle Tractors, Pumpkinapolis 500, Family Bikes, and, this year, Real Restrooms. For more information, look at the Attractions web page or take a Virtual Tour of Vala’s.

What do guests have to pay extra for?

• Train Ride: $2.50 per person
• Pony Ride: $3.50 per person
• Giant Slingshot: $1.00 for 3 shots
• Paint Ball Shootout: $3.00 for 10 paintballs

Are there group rates?

See the groups pages and the special events page for more information.

Is there a discount for visiting Vala’s more than once during a single year?

Vala's offers a season pass. See more information on the Season Pass page. They are available at the Admissions Barn beginning Sept. 23^rd. If you would like to visit Vala’s more than once, this is a good deal.

Is Vala’s open if it is raining outside?

Yes, but we do not encourage people to visit in the rain, except as a last resort. Indoor activities are very limited and often the Hayracks will be prevented from running by muddy conditions. Go to omaha.com for current weather information.

Are there refunds if guests leave due to rain?

No - Vala’s remains open, despite weather conditions. Consult omaha.com for current weather information and choose your day carefully. The threat of rain may mean that Vala’s is less crowded, but it could also leave you wet and muddy if you decide to brave the elements. General Admissions is non-refundable, but in the event of sudden rainstorms or extreme conditions, check with Admissions before you leave the farm to see if they will give you a rain ticket or discount voucher, allowing you to return on a future date.

Can I buy Turkey Legs, Caramel Apples, Fudge, Kettle Corn, etc. without paying general admission?

Yes – When you reach the Admissions window, tell them what you would like to buy. They will have you pay the general admission price, but retain your receipt. As you leave the farm, you will be able to refund your receipt for the price of admission, as long as you have not remained in the park for longer than 1/2 hour.

How much do campfire sites cost?

$50.00 - Visit the Groups webpage for more information.

How do I make a campfire site, school group, or birthday party reservation?

You can submit a campfire request form online and / or call Vala’s at (402) 332-4200. Certain dates fill up fast, so make your reservation as soon as possible.

Can groups bring their own food?

Yes, but remember that NO ALCOHOL is allowed at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch.

How do we get our food to our campfire site?

Vala’s has a very limited capacity for helping groups transport coolers and food to campfire sites. We in no way guarantee that we will be able to help. For liability reasons, we also restrict the amount of motor traffic allowed inside the park. If you think you may have a problem transporting food to a campfire site, consider choosing a Catering Package from the Vala’s menu. All catering options are delivered directly to your campfire site by Vala’s catering staff members.

What kind of food can we buy from Vala’s?

Visit the Catering Package web page for a complete listing of all Vala’s catering options. Also visit Most Popular Fall Treats and Meals and Deals for a look at the wide selection of offerings.

What do Jan and Tim Vala do during the other eleven months of the year?

Tim and Jan Vala belong to several national organizations that have conventions in the winter months. In March, the ground is prepared for planting and merchandise is ordered for the gift shops. Planning and marketing work is done in April and May, and Tim begins planting pumpkins in June. July, August and September are busy preparing for the new fall season.

Do all the animals stay on the farm?

No – All the animals are owned by Mark Celesky, whom you would probably recognize as the pig racing leader. If you would like to learn more about Mark and his business, visit www.boardinghousefarms.com or call 402-665-2437.

How many people work at Vala’s?

In 2005, we hired over 375 seasonal employees. We currently employ 4 full-time workers year round, and have about 10 part-time workers during the summer and fall. Visit our Employment Opportunities web page for more information.

Can I work at Vala’s even if I have a full-time job?

Yes – Many people that work for Vala’s during October have full-time jobs. We do our best to work around everyone’s schedule. The time we always need the most help is weekends, especially Friday nights. See the Employment Opportunities web page.