Vala’s Pumpkin Patch set to reopen in September

Vala's Pumpkin Patch will look a little different when it reopens on September 18.

Lincoln, Neb. (KLKN) – Vala’s Pumpkin Patch near Gretna, Nebraska is set to reopen in just under a month. One of the favorite fall attractions will look a little different than previous years, and employees are making sure guests feel safe.

“We just love fall,” safety and attractions director Alina Macias said. “That’s what everything has been centered around. How can we have a safe, fall season and what that looks like.”

Vala’s is working closely with the health department and CDC to monitor how many people can be at the farm at a given time. The patch has been preparing for the reopening since March, and created a COVID-19 task force to assist in the reopening process. They scaled every inch of the 400-acre farm to determine how many people can be in a given area and what adjustments need to be made. During the reopening, the number of guests will be limited. Vala’s will be cutting off admission to the patch if or when it reaches maximum capacity.

Guests will also be encouraged to practice social distancing. Macias says guests may have to wait in line before entering attractions so employees can monitor the number of people.

There will be hand washing stations placed throughout the patch, near attractions, and at the entrance. Glass barriers will also be installed in food locations and at cashier registers. Masks are encouraged, but not required.

Vala’s is taking the reopening process “day-by-day and case-by-case.” Macias says if there are things they need to change, they will take the necessary steps to make those changes.

“We’re hoping to have a successful season whatever that may look like,” she said. We know it will be a little bit different, but for now everything has been going great.”

Valas is set to reopen on September 18. If you and your family are anxious to get back to the patch, Vala’s will be having an Apple Festival Labor Day weekend. You can find more information at the Vala’s Pumpkin Patch website.