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 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 over 33 attractions and 3 live shows: The 5-acre Corn Maze, 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, Old Hwy 6 pedal carts, Pumpkinapolis 500, Family Pedal Carts, and "Real" Restrooms. For more information, look at the
Interactive Map web page or take a
Photo Gallery of Vala’s.
What do guests have to pay extra for?
- Train Ride: $3.00 per person
- Pony Ride: $5.00 per child, 12 and younger
- The Giant Slinshot should be changed to “Apple Slingshots/Water Blasters” and the prices are $1.00 for 3 apples, $5.00 for 18 apples, $1.00 per water blaster bottle
- Paint Ball Haunted Shootout: $3.00, $5.00, and $7.50
- Harvest Barn Picture-Taking
- Face-Painting
- Candle-making
Are there group rates?
See the groups pages and the
Fall Festival Highlights 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. 20th. 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 Admission 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 Barn window, tell them what you would like to buy. They will have you sign-up for the half-hour pass, allowing you to go get your desired purchase.
