Carmichael's Pumpkin Patch Becomes Family Tradition For Many

Nearly 50 years ago a locally owned produce store in Bixby started a pumpkin patch.

Carmichael's Pumpkin Patch opened when Steve Carmichael was just six years old.

"My kindergarten teacher asked if we had pumpkins because we were farmers and from then on we started bringing in pumpkins," he said.

His father Don Carmichael loves seeing generations of families visit year after year, but this fall is extra special.

"This year he has had some health issues, and I have been running it for him, but he is able to come and visit with people which is what he likes to do anyway," said Steve.

For many families, the Carmichael Pumpkin Patch is a tradition.

"I brought my granddaughter Kylie out here when she was little, and so we have just kept this up," said Glenda Shelton.

Now, they both get to experience it through 5-year-old Emma Poggi's eyes.

"She picks out a pumpkin every year and this year she said I want a big pumpkin, not a little one so we are going to get her a big pumpkin," Shelton said laughing.

Carmichael's Pumpkin Patch also has a dozen different kinds of farm animals like goats, sheep, cows, alpacas, and potbelly pigs, many of which are born during the fall season.

"We do not charge any admission to get in because we want everybody to get the opportunity to come and see the animals," Steve said.

Feeding the animals is also affordable, costing just $1 per bag. The pumpkin patch even has $7 camel and pony rides which Emma said is one of her favorite parts.

"I love riding the horses and going in the maze," she said.

Those are memories her family only dreamed of a few years ago before adopting Emma in 2021.

"I am going to get emotional because they tried for so many years," Shelton continued saying, "She is just a beautiful gift, so we just spend as much time as we can with her."

Carmichael's Pumpkin Patch is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through October 31st at 17137 S Mingo Rd.

For more information visit their Facebook page here.