Magnolia Meadow Farms Fall Festival

Magnolia Meadow Farms in Thurmont centers its fall festival on what it calls Maryland's largest corn maze, with more than five miles of trails. More than 20 activities span ages, including farm animal interactions, apple cannons, a jumping pillow, mini ziplines, pedal carts, mountain slides, and a barrel train. The menu leans on local beef. U-pick fields, reached on foot from the activities area or by hayride, hold pumpkins in several shapes and colors, gourds, sunflowers, and cut flowers such as zinnias and wildflowers. A farm market sells items grown or made on the farm plus local products, including pre-picked pumpkins. Private campfires can be reserved on open days. Moonlit Maze nights add time in the maze after dark.

Our take: Take the last hayride by 5:30 if the u-pick fields are the goal, because those fields close at 6:00.