Gaver Farm Fall Festival 2026: A Family Guide to Fall Fun in Mount Airy, Maryland
Updated: 1 day ago
Looking for fall activities in Maryland that will keep the kids busy beyond a quick trip to the pumpkin patch? Gaver Farm Fall Festival in Mount Airy brings together giant slides, jumping pillows, a corn maze, farm animals, and plenty of seasonal treats.
With more than 60 activities to explore, you can build your day around outdoor play, pumpkin picking, and a stop for apple cider donuts. Here’s what to know before planning your family’s visit to Gaver Farm.
Gaver Farm Location and Fall Festival Hours
Gaver Farm is located at 5501 Detrick Road, Mount Airy, MD 21771.
The 2026 fall season runs through November 1, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Check the farm’s opening status before leaving home if rain is in the forecast.
Gaver Farm Fall Festival Tickets and Admission
The farm’s website currently lists these admission prices:
Visit day | Admission per person |
Weekdays | $14.50 |
September weekends | $20.50 |
October weekends | $24.00 |
Children under 2 | Free |
Children age 2 and older need a ticket. Tickets are available online and at the farm, but daily availability is limited. I recommend purchasing online, especially for October weekends, when walk-up admission may sell out. Confirm the total for your selected date before purchasing.
You can find ticket information on the Gaver Farm website.
Fall Activities for Kids at Gaver Farm
One of the biggest draws of this Maryland fall festival is the variety of activities. Families can move between active play, games, animal visits, and seasonal photo spots throughout the day.
Activities include:
Giant slides
Jumping pillows
Ninja course
Corn maze
Tug-of-war
Duck races
Cow train
Pedal carts
Farm animals
Photo props
If your kids enjoy climbing, bouncing, and racing, there are plenty of ways to burn off energy. The corn maze adds another activity to explore together, while the photo props give you places to pause for family pictures.
Planning tip: The cow train and pedal karts are among the attractions available on weekends only, so consider your family’s must-do activities when choosing a visit date.
Farm Animals and Feeding
The farm animals are another stop to add to your day, especially if you have little ones who enjoy seeing animals up close. Animal feed is $4 per cup.
Pumpkin Picking in Mount Airy, Maryland
If you’re searching for a pumpkin patch in Mount Airy, Gaver Farm offers a hayride to the picking fields.
The hayride is free, while pumpkins cost extra. You don’t need Fall Fun Fest admission for the pick-your-own hayrides, making this an option for families who want to focus on picking rather than the festival activities.
Leave time to browse the patch and choose your pumpkins before heading back to the market.
Apple Picking and Pick-Your-Own Sunflowers
Gaver Farm also offers apple picking in Maryland for an additional fee. The current schedule lists Friday afternoons from noon to 6 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during September and October. Check crop availability before your visit.
Pick-your-own sunflowers are another seasonal option, with flowers purchased separately. If sunflower picking is a priority, check what’s available that day before making the trip.
Food and Fall Treats at Gaver Farm
You may want to leave room in your plans and your appetite for the food!
Sweet treats and drinks include apple cider donuts, hot cider, cider slushies, pies, fudge, lattes, cookies, and kettle corn.
For something more filling, options include hot dogs, nachos, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, burgers, grilled cheese, and French fries. Menu availability may vary during your visit. Whether you’re stopping for a snack between activities or taking a lunch break, there are several options to work into your day.
Shopping at the Gaver Farm Market
Before leaving, take a look around the farm market. You’ll find pumpkins, pies, jams, candy, mums, seasonal decorations, toys, and other treats.
It’s a convenient stop if you want to bring home something for your porch, pick up a pie, or browse for a small souvenir.
Tips for Visiting Gaver Farm With Kids
A little planning can make your fall farm outing easier:
Buy tickets ahead of time. Popular dates can sell out.
Allow several hours. With so many activities, you’ll want time to explore without rushing.
Wear comfortable shoes. Plan for walking and outdoor play.
Dress in layers. Fall temperatures can change throughout the day.
Budget for extras. Animal feed, food, pumpkins, apples, and sunflowers are separate purchases.
Plan for porta-potties. Keep that in mind when visiting with toddlers or children who are potty training.
Check the daily schedule. Picking availability, weather, and attraction schedules can affect your plans.
Plan Your Maryland Fall Farm Adventure
Gaver Farm combines a pumpkin patch, corn maze, farm animals, and outdoor activities in one Mount Airy destination. For families looking for things to do with kids in Maryland this fall, it offers plenty to build a day around.
Choose your visit date, purchase tickets ahead of time, and leave room for a seasonal treat before heading home.
For more family outings, Maryland attractions, and travel ideas, follow Austin Family Adventures at @_austinfamilyadventures.
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