Owners, Carrie and Mark Schnepf began the first Pumpkin Chili Party thirty years ago. Today, it is hard to imagine Queen Creek without this annual event. People from all over Arizona and even further, come just to experience the farm, rides, and the chili. Carrie says that they came up with the idea after seeing all the pumpkin festivals at other farms, yet she says she wanted to throw a party instead. 'We had a bluegrass band, chili, cornbread, corn, brownies... to get everyone into the Fall mood.' They were surprised by how many people showed up.
October remains quite warm in Arizona, yet the Schnepfs realized people were hungry for those Autumnal vibes, even if they were still dressing for summer. The party that was originally designed to last one week grew to a month, and the crowds swelled from 6,000 to 100,000. Their take on a traditional pumpkin festival incorporated some southwestern culture and aspects of the farm too. Today in addition to pig races, a pumpkin patch, hay rides, and a corn maze, they have also included paint ball and a scavenger hunt.
They have also upgraded their circa 1925 carousel in addition to their fully refurbished 1912 carousel. Carrie says this year they will have a new ride, more decorations and landscaping with added color. There will be a new stage for live entertainment and even some new food items. However they will still be serving fresh hot chili, including veggie, original, and their pumpkin chili.
Carrie says that they try to add something new every year and what gets her most excited about the event is how it has become a tradition for many families to return year after year. 'People who came as children continue to come with their children,' she says. The Schnepfs clearly want to help people make lasting memories, as she adds, "it's so fun to see people and the smiles on their faces.'
www.schnepffarms.com