By J1 Reporter Vada Herrera

Vala’s is a well-known family pumpkin patch here in Nebraska. Its magic has reached thousands of families over the past years since it first opened in 1984. Originally, when Vala’s opened there was no fee for general admission. However, that factor has drastically changed today. Going on any average day within the fall months is nearly $50 per person during season weekends. That’s not including if you want to get some lunch for around $20 and maybe a Carmel apple for $12 for the car ride home. This has quickly become a negative for many. Though, they still remain popular.

Junior Maria Burt shares how it’s one of her most favorite fall traditions each year. “I typically go once with my family and once with my friends if we can all fit at the same time”, she explains. “It has gotten so much more pricey than from when I was little though”. She also shares that it is much more than just a quick visit to a pumpkin patch and it becomes a “whole day event.” It is about a 40-minute drive from her house and they end up eating there too. Not only that but the size of her family takes up a big part of the mention. With her three sisters, three brothers and her parents the family takes on Vala’s yearly if they can.

A different experience from English teacher, Mrs. Brown. She explains she was first introduced to Valas when she was a college student. One of her most fond memories of the place was when her sorority went as a pack and rented out the fire pits, “It’s a memory I love to think back on,” Brown said.

She’s excited to take her new little niece and other loved ones to Valas, but she agrees the prices are outrageous. Yes, there are many features that deserve the price, but she among others wishes the price was lower. With all that Vala’s comes people would be there more often if it weren’t so expensive; “I just can’t get behind the price, but other than that I love the place,” Brown said. Overall she would rate the destination about a 7/10.

It has become much more than just a place to pick pumpkins and have apple cider. The area has bloomed into more of an amusment park feel with rides, games, and acreage not much smaller than Tennessees famous “Dollywood.”

The feel has attracted people from all over the country and it is no longer just a Nebraska delight. Although a majoity of thse who attend do live near it, people travel to attend and it has become one o the best attractions our state has to offer. Similairily to Omahas world famous Henry Doorly Zoo.

Although the price is high, the memories are worth much more.

Vala’s Signature Entryway, Photo by Olivia Langdon