'Tis the season for pumpkin carving and Halloween decorations—and what better place to pick your prized gourd than at a local pumpkin patch? Happy spooky season!

Pumpkin Patch Express at the Florida Railroad Museum

Oct. 16-17 and 23-24, 12210 83rd St. E., Parrish

The Pumpkin Patch Express takes riders on a trip to the Florida Railroad Museum's own pumpkin patch, where kids can pick a pumpkin to take home. Ticket price also includes hay rides, arts and crafts, Lincoln log building, and games, with food and beverage available for purchase on the train and while at the pumpkin patch. Tickets range from $15-$33; group options are also available.

Hunsader Farms

Oct. 16-17, 23-24, 30-31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 5500 C.R. 675, Bradenton

This fall fave, which runs most weekends in October, boasts a great pumpkin patch, as well as live entertainment, food and fun for the whole family. $12 for adults and kids over 10; free for kids 10 and under. Parking is $5.

Fruitville Grove

Oct. 16-17, 23-24, 30-31, 7410 Fruitville Road, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grab a pumpkin at this long-running local festival's "pumpkin palace," then stay for live entertainment, a petting zoo, food and more.

The Meadows Country Club Fall Festival

Saturday, October 16th. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., 3101 Longmeadow, Sarasota

In addition to a pumpkin patch, this family-friendly event offers a bounce house, golf cart hayride, festival games, face painting and festive treats. Free for kids 10 and under; $5 for adults.

Fall Festival at University Town Center

Saturday, October 23rd-Sunday, October 24th, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota

This free festival promises a great pumpkin patch, with all proceeds benefiting Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida.