Fall Fun for Special Needs Adults at The Willis Farm Pumpkin Patch

Lexington Services Show Low adult day program group posing at the FALL display during pumpkin patch outing

There’s something about autumn that brings people together: the crisp air, the colors, and the sense of celebration that comes with the harvest season. On Friday, October 4, 2025, members of Lexington Services DTA in Show Low spent a perfect fall day exploring The Willis Farm Pumpkin Patch in Snowflake, Arizona, before enjoying a relaxing lunch at Freeman Park in Taylor.

Finding Joy in the Maze: Learning and Fun for Special Needs Adults

For many of the adults with special needs who attended, this was their very first time visiting the Pumpkin Patch, a yearly tradition that everyone looks forward to. The day began with the Artifact Maze, where each turn presented a new and fun challenge. Members answered trivia questions about Arizona to find the right path forward, and a few tricky wrong answers led to some good-natured laughter and backtracking.

By the time they reached the end, spirits were high. The group was rewarded with the sight of friendly farm animals, including curious sheep that welcomed a few gentle pets and lots of smiles.

Lexington Services DTA adult day program members selecting pumpkins at The Willis Farm in Snowflake, AZ

Picking the Perfect Pumpkin

Next came one of the most anticipated parts of the trip, choosing a pumpkin straight from the patch. Each member searched carefully through rows of orange gourds until they found the one that felt just right. There was pride and excitement in every selection, some small and round, others big and bold, each a reflection of the person who picked it.

Capturing the Moment

The photos from the day tell the story beautifully: members sitting together on hay bales under the “Willis Farm” archway, surrounded by pumpkins and fall décor; smiling faces in front of the giant “FALL” display; and the warmth of shared laughter as the group enjoyed lunch outdoors. These are the moments that show what connection and community really look like.

The Heart Behind the Tradition at Lexington’s Adult Day Program

Trips like this are opportunities for learning, independence, and joy. Whether answering quiz questions, choosing a pumpkin, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, every member had an experience that was meaningful.

As one participant put it best, “I had a good time. I liked the maze and animals.”

For the Lexington Services DTA community, it’s moments like these that make every Wednesday outing special!