Ballina Pumpkin Patch returns for a magical Halloween weekend

The hugely popular Ballina Pumpkin Patch is set to return this October Bank Holiday Weekend, following the success of its inaugural event last year.

Taking place from Saturday, October 24 to Monday, October 26, the Ballina Pumpkin Patch promises families another magical Halloween experience, combining pumpkins, autumn activities, spooky fun and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories.

For 2026, organisers have added an extra touch of magic, with every child in attendance receiving their own pumpkin to take home as a Halloween keepsake.

Supporting Sunflower Children’s Hospice

This year’s event will also support Sunflower Children’s Hospice, which will provide vital services to children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses and their families across eight counties along the Western Seaboard.

The hospice will offer services including respite, nursing and end-of-life care.

Visitors attending the Pumpkin Patch will have the opportunity to make an optional donation when purchasing their tickets, helping to raise funds for the hospice while also highlighting the importance of its work in communities across the region.

The Ballina Pumpkin Patch also forms part of the wider Let There Be Light – Ballina Christmas Festival and contributes towards the annual Christmas lights in Ballina, supporting the community-led programme that brings the town to life during the festive season.

Autism-friendly sessions

Organisers are continuing their commitment to making the event as inclusive as possible, with dedicated Autism-Friendly Sessions taking place from 9:30 am to 10:30 am on Saturday and Sunday.

The specially designated sessions will offer a quieter and calmer experience, with reduced crowds and sensory stimulation for families who would benefit from a more relaxed environment.

Organisers look forward to welcoming families back

The organising committee said the response to last year’s inaugural event surpassed all expectations and that they are delighted to bring the Pumpkin Patch back for 2026.

“The response to the first Ballina Pumpkin Patch exceeded all of our expectations, and we're thrilled to bring it back even bigger and better this year. We wanted to create a magical Halloween tradition where families can spend quality time together, enjoy the beauty of autumn, and make lasting memories.

“We're especially proud that this year's event will support Sunflower Children's Hospice, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful day out while also contributing to an incredibly important cause. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another fantastic weekend.”

Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, also welcomed the return of the event to the region’s autumn calendar.

“The Ballina Pumpkin Patch has quickly established itself as one of the highlights of the autumn season in North Mayo. Events like this showcase the warmth, creativity and community spirit that make our region such a welcoming destination for families.

“It's wonderful to see the organisers continue to grow the event while supporting such an important charity. Visitors can expect a memorable day out, and it's another fantastic reason to experience Ballina during one of the most colourful times of the year.”

Ballina Pumpkin Patch 2026

Saturday 24 October: 9:30 am– 4:00 pm Autism-Friendly Session: 9:30 am–10:30 am

Sunday 25 October: 9:30 am–4:00 pm Autism-Friendly Session: 9:30 am–10:30 am

Monday 26 October: 9:30 am–2:30 pm

• Single Ticket – €12: Admission and one pumpkin.
• Family Ticket – €30: Admission for up to four people, with every child receiving a pumpkin.
• Autism-Friendly Child Ticket – €12: One child, one accompanying adult free of charge, and one pumpkin.
• Additional child for Autism-Friendly Sessions – €6: Includes a pumpkin.

Tickets will be available exclusively through Eventbrite under Ballina Pumpkin Patch 2026.