The wait is almost over! The annual Pumpkin Patch hosted by First United Methodist Church of Alexandria (FUMCA) officially opens tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 22, and runs through Monday, Oct. 26. Head over to the lot across from the church at 2727 Jackson Street to pick out your perfect pumpkin and celebrate a beloved local tradition.
The excitement grows today as the massive shipment of pumpkins arrives. A special thank you goes out to the dedicated cadets from the Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program (LANGYCP), who are helping today to unload the trucks and set up the patch for the community. To show appreciation for their hard work, the cadets will be hosted tonight at The Gathering, FUMCA’s weekly Wednesday night community meal and fellowship event—and the whole community is invited to join! Food service is from 5–5:45 p.m., featuring a fresh, home-cooked meal ($6 for adults, $3 for children ages 4–12, 3 & Under FREE, or $18 maximum per family) followed by evening fellowship programs. Cash and Square Debit/Credit (Tap & Pay) accepted.
Tonight’s Menu (Oct. 21):
- Main: Roasted Pork Loin
- Sides: Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Roasted Corn, Tossed Salad, French Bread, and Dessert
Payment Accepted: Cash and Square Debit/Credit (Tap & Pay)
It’s a wonderful opportunity to share a table, and kick off the week’s festivities together.
For decades, the multi-day Pumpkin Patch has brought the Alexandria community together for fall fun. Visitors can shop for pumpkins of all shapes and sizes while taking advantage of festive photo opportunities. Best of all, every purchase directly supports the educational mission of First United Methodist Preschool (FUMP).
For generations, the preschool and daycare have served as a core mission of the church. FUMCA members fondly say that the children who attend FUMP are “born in the Pumpkin Patch,” linking this seasonal tradition directly to the young lives it supports.
Don’t Miss the New Trunk or Treat Time!
Planning your weekend? Take note of a key schedule change for one of the event’s most popular activities:
- Trunk or Treat: Sunday, Oct. 25, from 1–2:00 p.m.
- Seasonally decorated cars will line up to hand out treats to children and families in a safe, fun environment.
Pumpkin Patch Hours & Location
- Thursday, Oct. 22 (Opening Day): 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 23: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday, Oct. 24: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 25: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Trunk or Treat: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
- Monday, Oct. 26: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Location: 2727 Jackson Street, Alexandria, LA (Lot across from the church)
“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 added. “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.”
Get Involved & Learn More
Gather your family, mark your calendar for tomorrow’s opening, and join in on the fall festivities!
- Website: fumca.org/pumpkinpatch
- Phone: First United Methodist Church Office at (318) 443-5696
- Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. | Friday, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Learn More About Youth Challenge: Visit langycp.com to learn more about the cadet program.
- Discover The Gathering: View program offerings and future menus at fumca.org/thegathering.