From Antiques to Autumn Acres: The Story of The Great Pumpkin Farm
About 33 years ago, Kelly Schultz shared a bold plan with his friends and family: he was going to open a pumpkin farm. At the time, many laughed at the idea. After all, Schultz was a second-generation antiques seller with no farming experience, yet he was determined to pursue this new venture. Today, that once-skeptical crowd has a very different view of Schultz’s success.
In 1993, Schultz purchased an 85-acre former cattle farm in Clarence, New York, for approximately $650,000. Despite his lack of agricultural background, he envisioned transforming the property into a thriving seasonal destination. His vision was inspired by a visit to a crowded pumpkin patch in upstate New York, where he noticed the potential for improvement: “muddy parking lots” and limited amenities contrasted with a large number of visitors eager to celebrate autumn traditions.
Building a Seasonal Destination
Today, The Great Pumpkin Farm operates for about seven weeks each fall, from mid-September through October 31. In that short window, it draws over 100,000 visitors who come to enjoy a variety of attractions beyond just pumpkins. The farm offers hayrides, live entertainment, a pumpkin-themed train, pie-eating contests, and a sprawling five-acre corn maze. Weekend admission is $20, with some activities, such as the corn maze, requiring an additional fee.
Despite being open for less than two months each year, the farm generated $2 million in revenue in 2025, underscoring the lucrative potential of seasonal agritourism. Schultz’s ability to combine authentic farm experiences with family-friendly entertainment has turned the property into a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
Lessons in Entrepreneurship and Community Impact
Schultz’s journey from antiques to agriculture exemplifies entrepreneurial adaptability and vision. His willingness to enter unfamiliar territory and improve upon existing models helped him create a unique experience that resonates with visitors. According to Schultz, many guests become repeat visitors, returning almost every weekend during the season because of their affection for the farm.
This success highlights the broader trend of Americans investing more in Halloween celebrations. The National Retail Federation reported that Halloween spending in 2026 is expected to reach $13.5 billion, up from $13.1 billion the previous year. Consumers plan to spend an average of $115.14 each on costumes, decorations, candy, and seasonal experiences like Schultz’s pumpkin farm.
With nearly three-quarters of Americans intending to celebrate Halloween and an increasing number starting their preparations as early as September, seasonal businesses like The Great Pumpkin Farm stand to benefit from this growing enthusiasm. The farm’s popularity is a testament not only to Schultz’s vision but also to the cultural importance of fall traditions in the United States.
How Schultz’s Vision Continues to Grow
The Great Pumpkin Farm is more than just a business; it’s a community staple that brings joy and seasonal charm to thousands. Schultz’s story is a reminder that expertise can be developed through passion and dedication, even when starting from scratch. His background in antiques may seem unrelated, but his understanding of quality, customer experience, and value translated seamlessly into his new venture.
As Schultz reflects on his journey, he notes the farm’s evolution and increasing visitor numbers each year. His story encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace new challenges and trust their instincts, illustrating that success often comes from combining creativity with hard work.
For more details on Kelly Schultz and The Great Pumpkin Farm, read Here.
