Seeking A Traditional Pumpkin Patch? Head To Shawn’s In Mar Vista

MAR VISTA, CA — Face masks are required. Capacity is limited. And some rides and attractions are not running this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But for locals longing for such traditional, fall festivities as a slew of pumpkins, a petting zoo and train rides, Shawn's Pumpkin Patch in the Mar Vista area could fill the bill.

Shawn's one location for 2020 —at 3443 South Sepulveda Blvd. — will open Oct. 3 and run daily through the end of the month, with the exception of Oct. 5-7, when it will be closed.

And due to COVID-19 restrictions, Shawn's is instituting new rules, and it will be a smaller venue than in years past.

"We are making changes and downsizing this event to ensure the safety of everyone," Shawn's managers said. "When the Pumpkin Patch reaches capacity, as one family/group exits, another family/group will be allowed to enter. We expect to have lines, so please come prepared to wait before entering."

Face coverings will be required, and activities will include train rides, a petting zoo, a mini straw-maze, sand art and some carnival games, operators said, adding those features will be sanitized after each use.

As several area lots are opting not to open or to modify their 2020 Halloween plans, pumpkin pickin's did appear slim this year.

Another popular patch, Mr. Jack O'Lanterns on North Highland Avenue in Hollywood, announced this week it, too, is reopening for 2020 — but with changes and restrictions, along with home-delivery services.

In Culver City, Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch will not operate its lot, but is offering pick-up and delivery options, along with virtual events.

Pa's Pumpkin Patch, a Halloween legend in Long Beach for more than 40 years, is closed for the season.

And other Halloween attractions in the Southland are making adjustments to their business plans.

The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, a longtime Griffith Park tradition, is switching to a drive-up format in San Dimas. And the annual, "Nights of the Jack" walk-through experience, at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, will operate this year as a drive-thru.

Meanwhile, at Shawn's in West L.A., given its crowd limitations, selecting the right day and time may be key to a successful outing.

"We strongly recommend visiting us during the week or early morning on the weekends to avoid lines and ask for cooperation and patience when visiting," operators said. "We hope to make the best of this Halloween season for everyone to enjoy."

Follow this link for more information on Shawn's and its operating hours.

ALSO SEE:

• Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch Will Not Open In Culver City For 2020
• Mr. Jack O'Lanterns To Open For Halloween 2020 In Hollywood
• 'Nights Of Jack' Plans Halloween Drive-Thru For 2020 In SF Valley
• Griffith Park's 'Haunted Hayride' Plans 'Drive-Up' Scare For 2020
• Pa's Pumpkin Patch Not Opening For Halloween 2020