Huge Pumpkins Show Up at Bearss Groves, Starting Popular Fall Tradition in Tampa

Two massive Wisconsin pumpkins made their way to The Farm at Bearss Groves in Tampa, Florida. The giants arrived Oct. 6 at the farm's Lake Magdalene Boulevard location, carrying on a time-honored autumn custom.

"Even when nature throws a curveball, we're committed to keeping our traditions alive for the Tampa Bay community," said Marta Zarobkiewicz, owner of Bearss Groves, according to Tampa Bay 28. "These twin pumpkins are a symbol of the teamwork and community spirit that make fall at Bearss Groves so special."

After local crops fell short, staff searched nationwide. A stroke of luck led them to Wisconsin. The farm owner's parents lived near a grower there and stepped in to help ship the prized pumpkins south.

Tomorrow at 9:30 a.m., students from Corbett Prep will gather to welcome these orange giants.

This historic site has fed the Lutz area with fresh crops and local goods since the 1920s. A fierce hurricane shut them down in 2024. Yet by January 2025, they bounced back strong.

The patch opens on Oct. 15 and runs until Nov. 2. Visitors can browse thousands of pumpkins daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The selection spans from rare heirlooms to tiny decorative gourds.

Twice monthly, on the first and third Saturdays through May, local makers set up shop from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Mark your calendar for Oct. 18's market day.