What’s better than hanging around a pumpkin patch, enjoying homegrown goods at a farmers markets and doing corn mazes during fall? In fact, these activities are staples to fall traditions in many families.

Pumpkin patches like A&H Farm, Britt’s Garden Acres and Little Munchkins have been putting on annual pumpkin patches starting Sept. 22 until Oct. 31. The patches put on exciting activities like zip-lining, picking a pumpkin, hayrides and corn mazes. If this sounds like your cup of cider, attend a pumpkin patch and see what all the fuss is about, pick a pumpkin and carve it when you get back home. But most of all, enjoy all the activities the patch has to offer.

Corn mazes are especially fun for those who enjoy challenges. Depending on how long the maze is, you won’t be able to find the end without wandering all around the maze in a barrel of fun with family or friends. When you’re in the maze, there’ll be corners and turns making you think the end is near, but that’s what’s fun about this challenging activity.

There are several farmers markets being hosted in fall, from the Summer Market to K-State’s Farmer’s Market. A farmer’s market is a community-based market selling various types of foods like cheese, fruit, vegetables, meat and baked goods. There are also starter plants, soaps, woodworking, jewelry and other arts and craft pieces. Various vendors host their booths promoting their farms’ or business’ products.

“Currently, my family sells baked goods,” Julianna Poe, freshman, said, “Every Friday, before the Saturday farmers market in Downtown Manhattan, my family and I bake cookies, muffins and brownies. We then package and label them. My sister and I also sell painted rocks and handcrafted jewelry, which we make in our free time. The following Saturday morning, we load the truck and when we arrive, we set up our tent, tables, samples and packages.”

Farmers markets all depend on size to have you wondering what you’ll find there. The fall farmers markets are up for business, and are up till the end of October, at which time the Winter Market begins.

“All the vendors at the farmers market are friendly and helpful,” Poe said. “Coming by and saying hello to each of them, checking out their hard work and maybe even sampling some of their items is always appreciated and we are always happy to help anyone find their way if they have any questions.”

The fall farmer’s market had just ended, at which it’s time for the Winter Market to begin.