Lakewood Ranch families have one last shot at the 35th annual Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival, which closes out its 2026 season Saturday, Oct. 24, and Sunday, Oct. 25.

The festival runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at 5500 County Road 675 in Bradenton. Admission is $15 for ages 10 and older, $5 for children ages 5 to 9 and free for children under 5. Parking costs $5. Admission and parking are cash only, according to The Suncoast Post.

Sunday's closing day adds children's and dog costume contests, plus trick-or-treating for kids in costume from 3 to 5 p.m.

The festival draws roughly 80,000 to 100,000 visitors across its run each year, according to Bay News 9. This year's schedule shrank after heavy rain and flooding forced the farm to cancel its Oct. 10-11 opening weekend. Rachel Hunsader, the farm's manager, told Bay News 9 that losing the opening weekend cost the farm thousands of dollars. Festival revenue helps cover repairs, planting and payroll, she said.

The hit extended beyond the farm. Vendor Dianne Benoit, owner of Caribbean Smoothees, told Bay News 9 the lost weekend hurt everyone involved. Marcy MacPherson, who sells pumpkins at the festival to raise money for her nonprofit Dementiability, told WWSB the canceled weekend cost her organization an estimated $800 in potential donations that support families affected by dementia.

The Oct. 17-18 weekend went ahead as planned. Noah Horton, a Lakewood Ranch resident who grew up visiting Hunsader Farms, brought his children, 3-year-old Rhylen and 6-month-old Sterling, and his fiancée, Elizabeth Rodrigues, for the first time as a family, Your Observer reported.

"My favorite part was seeing their excitement and knowing we're starting traditions and making memories they can look back on, just like I do," Horton told Your Observer.

Erin Sykes, another Lakewood Ranch resident, attended with her children, 9-year-old Ethan and 3-year-old May, and her sister, Drew. Sykes has gone to the festival for eight straight years, Your Observer reported.

Activities include a corn maze, pumpkin cannon, pony rides, a petting zoo, hayrides, scarecrow displays, Pioneer Trades Village, live music and fresh produce for sale. On Oct. 17, Stefan Benedetto of Twisted Willy's twisted soft pretzels, juggler Bruce Sarafian performed, and comedian Mike Rice brought Rowdy the Mule to the crowd.

The farm has operated since 1967. Planning for the annual festival begins each March.