As summer’s warmth begins to wane, a beloved autumnal tradition is gearing up to welcome visitors to Sauvie Island. The Pumpkin Patch, a generational farm synonymous with fall festivities, is set to open The MAiZE for its remarkable 27th season on Saturday, August 30th. This annual event is a cherished harbinger of autumn, inviting families and friends from across Oregon and beyond to get delightfully lost in an intricate corn labyrinth, marking nearly three decades of cherished memories and seasonal fun.
A Legacy of Labyrinthine Fun
The journey of The MAiZE on Sauvie Island began in 1998, a vision brought to life by brothers Craig and Casey Easterly. Inspired by their father, Vic Easterly, the siblings ventured into the world of corn mazes, collaborating with Brett Herbst, a pioneer in the field of maze design. Their initial foray into creating these agricultural puzzles started in Ontario, Oregon, before they recognized the fertile ground – both literally and figuratively – that Sauvie Island offered. The island, already a hub for local farms and U-pick operations, proved to be the ideal location for what would become Portland’s original corn maze. For more than a quarter of a century, The MAiZE at The Pumpkin Patch has evolved into a staple of fall entertainment, deeply woven into the fabric of the region’s seasonal celebrations.
“Cornlandia”: A Tribute to the Pacific Northwest
Each year, The MAiZE unveils a unique theme, transforming its five acres of corn into a living canvas. For its 27th season, the chosen theme is “Cornlandia,” a heartfelt tribute to the untamed beauty and unique spirit of the Pacific Northwest. This year’s design is described as a “love letter” to Portland’s wild heart, celebrating the diverse wildlife and majestic landscapes that define this corner of the world. As visitors navigate the maze’s twisting pathways, they are encouraged to reconnect with the natural splendor where elk roam, beavers build, and salmon run, all under the watchful gaze of Mount Hood. To add an extra layer of challenge and local flavor, guests can pick up a trivia passport at the maze entrance, with Portland-themed clues offering hints to guide them through the leafy corridors.
Beyond the Maze: A Full Farm Experience
The MAiZE is just one facet of the expansive offerings at The Pumpkin Patch. Established in 1967, this second-generation family farm has been cultivating crops for 57 years, growing over 55 different varieties throughout the season. Beyond the corn maze, the farm provides a myriad of activities designed to help families explore and enjoy the essence of autumn. Visitors can wander through the Produce Market for fresh farm goods, browse the charming Pumpkin Cottage Giftshop, or relax at the Patio Cafe and Pumpkin Perk Coffee. For a more traditional farm experience, daily hayrides offer a leisurely trip to the pumpkin fields, while the Big Red Animal Barn provides an opportunity to interact with farm animals. Kids can also delight in the Giant Hay Maze and Giant Hay Pyramid. The farm is also known for its U-pick opportunities, offering berries, peaches, and flowers earlier in the season, culminating with pumpkins in the fall.
Planning Your Visit
The MAiZE at The Pumpkin Patch is located at 16511 N.W. Gillihan Road on Sauvie Island. For its initial opening period from August 30th to September 26th, the farm will be open Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Starting September 27th, and continuing through October 31st, the farm will extend its hours to be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission to The MAiZE costs $10 for visitors aged six years and older, with free entry for children under five. Season passes are available for $25, and online ticket purchases may incur a small fee. To further celebrate the season’s grand opening, the Western Supply Band is scheduled to perform from noon to 2 p.m. on both August 30th and September 27th, adding a festive soundtrack to the day’s activities.
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their colorful transformation, The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island stands ready to provide another season of immersive fun and timeless traditions. This annual news continues to be a highlight for many, offering a quintessential experience to embrace the beauty and bounty of autumn in the Pacific Northwest. Families are invited to come and enjoy the unique challenge of “Cornlandia,” and make new cherished memories amidst the fields of gold.
