Horseshoe Bay Farms Offers Tours, Free Shuttles during Pumpkin Patch

Tour Horseshoe Bay Farms — and give your input about the future of the historical structures — during Pumpkin Patch, then take a free shuttle to the festival. Photo by Len Villano.

History buffs will love a new element of Pumpkin Patch this year. On Oct. 12, Horseshoe Bay Farms (HSBF) will provide free parking and shuttles to the festival. While there, visitors may tour the historic property and talk with members of the design team who are developing a master plan for the property.

Located about four miles south of the village, the farm was once one of the county’s largest seasonal employers and among the most innovative agricultural operations in the state. Last year the barns were purchased and placed into a nonprofit entity with the goal of creating a community center for education, events, agriculture and history. 

HSBF and the Ten x Ten design team will be on hand to answer questions and listen to the public’s vision for the future of the farm because public input will help to inform the master plan, which is expected to be completed this winter.

The farm will be open to the public Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm. HSBF has coordinated with local historians to provide guided tours of the farm and some of the historic barns, 11 am – 3 pm. The 8.5-acre property will also be open for self-guided tours, 10 am – 6 pm. HSBF will provide tour maps that include a short narrative highlighting important historical facts about the farm and its structures. 

This event is free. Though there’s no requirement to attend the Pumpkin Patch Festival, it’s encouraged. Temporary restrooms will be available. 

Free parking will be available 10 am – 6 pm in the county’s pastureland just south of Horseshoe Bay Farms at 7212 Horseshoe Bay Road. Free shuttles will transport visitors from the farm to Egg Harbor near Dock Road every 30 minutes. The last shuttle back to the farm will be 5:30 pm.