The 28th annual Pumpkin Patch hosted by First United Methodist Church of Alexandria opens Thursday, Oct. 22, and continues through Monday, Oct. 26, in the lot across from the church at 2727 Jackson Street, Alexandria, Louisiana. The five-day Pumpkin Patch is a longtime Alexandria tradition, dating back to 1998. Pumpkins of all shapes and sizes will be available for purchase, along with plenty of opportunities for fall photos. Proceeds from the Pumpkin Patch support the educational mission of First United Methodist Preschool (FUMP).
The preschool and daycare have been a mission of First United Methodist Church for 70 years. Church members often say that the children who attend FUMP are “born in the Pumpkin Patch,” connecting the annual tradition with the ministry that benefits from it.
The Trunk or Treat has a new time: Sunday, Oct. 25, from 1–2 p.m. Seasonally decorated cars will line up to provide treats for children and families.
The Pumpkin Patch will be open Thursday and Friday from noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.; and Monday from noon to 6 p.m.
“At First United Methodist Church of Alexandria, we talk a lot about being a place of healing and belonging,” said Rev. Kennon Pickett, lead pastor. “Events like the Pumpkin Patch and Trunk or Treat are one small but meaningful way we live that out. We want our neighbors to celebrate that this is their community too.”
“These annual traditions are really an invitation. Come take a picture, bring the kids to Trunk or Treat, meet some new people, and enjoy the season with us,” Pickett said. “You don’t have to already be a part of our church family to belong here. Our doors and our hearts are open to our community.”
For more information, visit fumca.org/pumpkinpatch or contact the First United Methodist Church office at (318) 443-5696 during office hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–noon.