Farmer Copleys Pumpkin Festival returns for 20th anniversary with 300,000 homegrown pumpkins
What started with an inspirational trip to America has grown into one of West Yorkshire's biggest autumn traditions
One of Yorkshire’s most popular autumn traditions is celebrating a major milestone this year, as the Farmer Copleys Pumpkin Festival returns for its 20th anniversary - and it begins later this month running through until the start of November (September 26 - November 1)
Located just a short drive from Leeds at Ravensknowle Farm in Copley/Pontefract, what began 20 years ago following an inspirational trip to America by founders Rob and Heather Copley has grown into a massive regional attraction, drawing tens of thousands of visitors from across Leeds and West Yorkshire each autumn.
For 2026, the festival is returning bigger than ever, featuring over 300,000 homegrown pumpkins spanning more than 40 distinct varieties - from classic vibrant orange to white, green, and striped gourds across the fields.
Alongside pick-your-own pumpkin fields, the 20th-anniversary event features a packed schedule of entertainment for all ages, including:
- Tractor Rides: Guided rides out through the main pumpkin fields.
- Live Shows & Characters: Witches’ Storytime, magical performances, and daily character appearances, including Velcro the Scarecrow.
- Family Attractions: Archery, vintage fairground rides, and daily fancy dress competitions.
- Photo Opportunities: The famous Pumpkin House, "How Tall This Fall" height board, a vintage Chevy truck, and new 2026 photo backdrops.
Food is also a central part of the experience, with pumpkin-inspired dishes served across the farm shop, Moo Café, and field stalls - ranging from fresh pumpkin soup and pies to warm autumn bakes.
Twilight Picking & Live Country Music
For visitors looking to experience the fields after dark, the festival’s Twilight Pumpkin Picking sessions return for 2026, offering golden-hour picking alongside marshmallow toasting, drinks at the Pumpkin Bar, and a lively atmosphere under the stars.
The evening sessions are anchored by a packed country music line-up running across the autumn season.
The nocturnal entertainment kicks off with Bootleggers Nashville Night on Saturday, September 26, followed by performances from Gary Quinn on October 10, and Maxed Out, who take to the stage across two consecutive Sundays on October 11 and October 18.
Singer-songwriter Jake O’Neill performs on October 17, before a Morgan Wallen UK tribute act brings modern country hits to the farm on October 23.
The live music continues through the final weekend of October with Ryan Evans appearing alongside Gasoline & Matches on October 24, followed by Matt Hodges on October 25.
The festival's evening sessions culminate on Halloween night with One Night in Nashville featuring Maria Jordan on October 31.
For more information, including bookings ahead of peak weekend slots, visit the official Farmer Copleys website.