Last Updated: December 31, 2025
Saunders Farm is one of Ottawa’s best-known fall destinations—a 100-acre working farm in Munster with a huge maze lineup, 28 pumpkin varieties, and seasonal events like PumpkinFest, FrightFest, and A Country Christmas.
Every autumn, thousands of Ottawa-area families head to Saunders Farm in Munster for the classic fall day out. Founded in 1976 by Bill and Anne Saunders as a strawberry operation, the farm has grown into a seasonal lineup—daytime PumpkinFest, FrightFest after dark, and A Country Christmas later in the year. This guide focuses on the practical details: what each event includes, typical pricing, what to book ahead, and tips locals use to avoid the biggest lineups.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Saunders Farm offers PumpkinFest (daytime, $25/person) and FrightFest (night, starting at $74/person in 2025) from September to November. FrightFest features 7 haunted attractions with professional actors trained through “Ghoul School.” The farm grows 28 pumpkin varieties priced at $0.89/lb (max $15). For the best value, buy tickets during the January pre-sale (~$17-20) or visit September weekdays when crowds are lightest.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 7893 Bleeks Road, Munster, ON K0A 3P0 |
| 📞 Phone | (613) 838-5440 |
| info@saundersfarm.com | |
| 📏 Farm Size | 100 acres |
| 🌐 Website | saundersfarm.com |
| 🕐 Main Season | May - December (seasonal events) |
| 🎃 PumpkinFest | $25/person (3+), free under 2 |
| 👻 FrightFest | Starting $74/person (2025) |
| 🎄 Country Christmas | ~$20+/person |
| 🅿️ Parking | FREE |
| 👥 Staff | 55-220 employees (seasonal) |
| 🏆 Lifetime Visitors | 1.2+ million |
What is Saunders Farm?
The pumpkin patch features 28 different varieties grown on-site
Saunders Farm is a family-owned 100-acre agritourism destination located in Munster, just southwest of Ottawa near Stittsville. Founded in 1976 by Bill and Anne Saunders, the farm began as a simple strawberry operation before evolving into what is now Canada’s premier seasonal attraction.
Farm History & Evolution
The farm’s transformation from strawberry fields to entertainment destination happened gradually over decades:
- 1976: Bill and Anne Saunders founded the farm as a strawberry operation
- Early 1990s: Expanded into corn mazes and fall activities
- 1992: Launched FrightFest, now in its 33rd year
- 2021: Launched Saunders Cider craft beverage production on-site
- 2025: Celebrating nearly 50 years of operation
The farm is now operated as a women-owned business, with Mark Saunders serving as the “Director of Fun” and managing day-to-day operations. During peak October operations, the farm employs 55-220 staff members and welcomes approximately 500 visitors per hour across 149 operating hours.
What Makes Saunders Farm Unique
Several factors distinguish Saunders Farm from other Ottawa-area attractions:
- Scale & Legacy: 100 acres of dedicated agritourism—the largest in the Ottawa region
- World-Famous Mazes: The largest collection of hedge mazes in North America (10-15 distinct mazes)
- Production Quality: In-house “Ghoul School” staff training program ($10,000/day investment) for FrightFest actors
- Year-Round Programming: Unlike competitors with single-season focus, Saunders offers seasonal rotations (Summer Mazes → PumpkinFest/FrightFest → Country Christmas)
- Craft Beverage Integration: On-site Saunders Cider production provides unique beverage experience unavailable at other farms
PumpkinFest: Daytime Fall Fun (September 20 - November 1)
Navigate through the world’s largest collection of hedge mazes
PumpkinFest runs on weekends from mid-September through October, plus daily during “Halloweek” (October 22-31), offering family-friendly daytime activities perfect for all ages.
PumpkinFest 2025 Pricing
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults & Children (3+) | $25 + tax |
| Children 2 & Under | FREE |
| Weekend Family Bundles | Available (contact farm) |
| Group Rates | Available for 15+ |
Money-Saving Tip: Purchase tickets during January pre-sales (typically $17-20 per ticket) or Valentine’s Day promotions through the farm’s email newsletter. Prices increase as the season progresses and closer to Halloween.
World-Famous Maze System
Saunders Farm boasts the largest collection of hedge mazes in the world, featuring approximately 10-15 distinct mazes of varying difficulty levels:
- Beginner Mazes: Easy paths for toddlers and young children
- Intermediate Mazes: Multiple turns and decision points
- Advanced Mazes: Challenging routes that can take 30-60 minutes to complete
- Puzzle Mazes: Logic-based challenges requiring problem-solving
- Corn Maze: Seasonal maze through towering corn stalks
The mazes accommodate all ages, from toddlers to adults, and offer family-friendly exploration without scares during daytime hours.
Pumpkin Patch & Picking
The farm grows 28 different pumpkin varieties on-site, providing substantial selection for:
- Jack-o’-lanterns (various sizes)
- Decorative gourds
- Cooking pumpkins
- Specialty varieties
Pumpkin Pricing:
- $0.89 per pound
- $15 maximum per pumpkin cap
- Pick-your-own harvest available
- Pre-picked options at the farm shop
Hayride & Wagon Experiences
Two distinct wagon rides operate during daytime:
Pumpkin Patch Wagon Ride:
- Tour through pumpkin fields and farm grounds
- Family-friendly experience
- Included with admission
Haunted Hayride (Daytime Version):
- Mild scares suitable for families
- Not recommended for children under 10 during evening version
- Different experience than nighttime FrightFest version
Summer season wagons run hourly 11 AM - 2 PM from Farmer Bill’s Treehouse.
Children’s Play Areas & Attractions
The farm includes multiple unique play structures across 100 acres:
Pirate Ship:
- Full-scale playground structure
- Climbing walls and slides
- Popular with children 4-12
Farmer Bill’s Treehouse:
- Multi-level climbing structure
- Integrated hay jump
- Interactive play elements
Molly’s Market:
- Play shopping experience
- Fake food and play money
- Teaches kids about farm-to-table
Woodland Adventure:
- Nature-based climbing structures
- Forest-themed playground
- Obstacle course elements
Witch’s Mountain:
- 40-foot slide (popular with children AND adults!)
- Tube slide experience
- One of the farm’s most popular attractions
Jumbo Jumpers:
- Two massive inflatable bounce pillow areas
- Shoes must be removed (bring extra socks!)
- Included with admission
Splash Pad:
- Water play area with multiple spray features
- On-site change rooms available
- Summer months only (May-August)
Additional Daytime Attractions (Extra Charges)
These attractions require additional payment by card/debit only:
| Attraction | Approximate Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Zipline | ~$15 | 600-foot course over mazes; min 44” height, 60 lbs weight, max 250 lbs |
| Gem Mine & Diggers | Varies | Sift for real gems/fossils; operate mini excavators |
| Arcade (Casket Ball) | Varies | Vintage and modern games |
| Saunders Safari Jeeps | Varies | Guided ride through farm |
Live Entertainment
Stage shows and strolling characters perform daily:
- The Pumpkin Princess: Popular strolling character
- Puppet Shows: Featuring “Mazey” and farm adventure stories
- New Productions: Fresh entertainment each year
PumpkinFest Hours
| Period | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| September - Early October | Weekends Only | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Thanksgiving Weekend | Extended Hours | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Halloweek (Oct 22-31) | Daily | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
FrightFest: Canada’s #1 Haunted Attraction (September 20 - November 1)
FrightFest features 7 professionally designed haunted attractions with 220+ trained actors
FrightFest is where Saunders Farm truly shines. Now in its 33rd year, this isn’t your average Halloween event—it’s a full-scale theatrical horror experience that draws thrill-seekers from across Ontario and Quebec. The farm invests heavily in production quality, including an in-house “Ghoul School” training program costing approximately $10,000 per day to prepare actors for the season.
FrightFest 2025 Schedule & Hours
| Period | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| September 20 - November 1 | Friday & Saturday Nights | 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM |
| ”Halloweek” (Oct 22 - Nov 1) | Every Night | 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM |
| Off-Peak Nights | Early Sept, Late Oct Weekdays | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM |
Important: Tickets are sold in 30-minute arrival time slots. You must arrive within your designated slot to secure entry. Stay for the full duration once inside.
FrightFest 2025 Pricing
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| General Admission | Starting at $74/person |
| RIP (Really Important Prey!) Fast Pass | $89-129/person (shorter waits) |
| January Pre-Sale Tickets | ~$17-25/person (limited availability) |
| Processing Fee | $2.99 per order |
Important Notes:
- Maximum 9 tickets per purchase
- Non-refundable tickets; operates rain or shine
- Prices increased significantly in 2025 (was ~$60 in previous years)
Pro Tip from Reddit: Buy tickets during the January sale or Valentine’s Day sale. Users on r/ottawa report paying ~$17-25 per ticket during these promotions—saving 60%+ versus full price.
The Seven Haunted Attractions (2025)
-
The Haunted Hayride: Newly renovated dark tour of farm grounds with live actors and effects; described as nightmare-inspired. All-new for 2025.
-
The Coven: Witch-infested haunt designed to “spell-bind” visitors with eerie witchcraft themes and disorienting paths.
-
The Shambles: The goriest attraction; escape from “genetically modified livestock” with chainsaw effects. High intensity.
-
The Circus (NEW 2025): Newest addition featuring twisted illusions and eerie carnival characters.
-
Pig House (The Pig Haunt): Intensely frightening for many visitors; features chainsaws and intense actor performances. Often cited as the scariest attraction.
-
Barn of Terror: Light daytime version available; significantly more intense at night with jump scares and confined spaces.
-
Circus Macabre: State-of-the-art haunted house with modern effects, lighting, and sound design.
Included with FrightFest Admission
- Access to all 7 haunted attractions
- Street theatre with roaming characters throughout grounds
- Fiery stage show performances
- Live entertainment
- Access to bonfires and gathering areas
Additional Cost Activities (At FrightFest)
- Zipline (same as daytime)
- Arcade games
- Food booths (see dining section)
- MacIntosh’s CiderHouse (wood-fired pizza, craft cider)
- Farmshop & local artisan market
Scare Level & Age Recommendations
Official Recommendation: Not recommended for children under 12
What to Expect:
- Professional actors trained through “Ghoul School” ($10,000/day training investment)
- Elaborate sets with practical effects (chainsaws, pyrotechnics)
- Live sound effects and immersive audio
- Darkness enhances psychological horror elements
- Nighttime is significantly scarier than daytime
Daytime FrightFest:
- Significantly less scary than nighttime
- Suitable for ages 10+ who enjoy mild frights
- Good for testing scare tolerance before committing to nighttime visit
Visitor Experiences Vary:
- Some 10-year-olds handle nighttime FrightFest well
- Others find it too frightening
- Know your group’s tolerance level
What Makes FrightFest Scary
Saunders FrightFest uses:
- Professional Actors: Staff trained through in-house “Ghoul School” program
- Elaborate Sets: Custom-built environments with attention to detail
- Live Sound Effects: Immersive audio throughout attractions
- Practical Effects: Chainsaws, pyrotechnics, fog machines
- Psychological Elements: Darkness, disorientation, confined spaces
- Actor Techniques: Jump scares, chase effects, personal space invasion
FrightFest Tips for First-Timers
-
Arrive During Off-Peak Dates: Early September and weekday evenings have 15-45 minute waits versus 90+ minutes on peak October weekends
-
Consider Early-Season Friday Nights: Moderate crowds, lower prices
-
Test Tolerance with Daytime Version: Experience daytime attractions before committing to nighttime
-
Set Expectations: You may NOT experience all 7 attractions in one night due to wait times (typical: 2-3 attractions)
-
Arrive Within Your Time Slot: Tickets require 30-minute arrival windows; arrive early within your slot
-
Dress Appropriately: Comfortable walking shoes (3+ hours on feet), layers for cold evenings
What Locals Say About Saunders Farm
Real feedback from r/ottawa, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor (4.0/5 rating, 240+ reviews):
Reddit (r/ottawa) Highlights
“It’s only worth it if you buy the tickets on their Valentine’s sale. I do it every year, otherwise it’s so expensive. I think it was ~$20 each.” - Reddit user on affordable FrightFest tickets
“Day admission is $25/person+tax & Night admission $35/person+tax. They also have weekend family admission and group rates.” - Reddit user (note: 2025 night prices have increased to $74+)
“PumpkinFest is $30 per adult just to get in, which makes me hesitate… but honestly, you get a full day of activities. My kids were entertained for 4+ hours.” - Reddit user on daytime value
“It looks like they have bumped prices up, as the normal admission was around $60 and it looks like they’re starting at $74 now.” - Reddit user on 2025 FrightFest pricing changes
TripAdvisor & Google Reviews
“Amazing experience with me and the kids! Always a very fun experience at Saunders Farm, it’s been a yearly tradition.” - Google Review
“They have thought of every detail. Great parking. They had salted/sanded all of the walking trails. We had hot apple cider, bonfires, fresh food…” - TripAdvisor Review
“Full-day experience with multiple attractions kept kids engaged for hours.” - TripAdvisor Review
“Magical Christmas experience; manageable crowds with timed entry.” - Google Review on Country Christmas
Common Criticisms (Legitimate Concerns)
- Overselling Peak Dates: 90-minute waits prevent visiting all attractions
- Premium Pricing: $74+ FrightFest + $50+ food costs for family
- Some Decline Noted: Some returning visitors note fewer actors, less immersive compared to prior years
- Extra Activities Add Up: $9-15 each for zipline, gem mine, etc.
- Food is Expensive: $81.36 reported for family meal (poutine, 3 burgers, hotdog, 3 juices, 1 pop)
Common Praise
- Best production value for Halloween in Ontario
- Haunted attractions are legitimately scary and well-produced
- Great for families during daytime
- Lots of activities to fill a full day
- Excellent photo opportunities throughout
- Picnic-friendly with excellent play areas
Other Seasonal Events
Summer Maze Days (May 31 - August 31)
The least-crowded season, perfect for families with young children:
Activities Include:
- World-famous hedge mazes (10-15 distinct mazes)
- Zipline (600-foot course over mazes)
- Jumbo Jumpers & Splash Pad with change rooms
- Wagon Rides (free hourly rides 11 AM - 2 PM from Farmer Bill’s Treehouse)
- Unique Playgrounds: Pirate Ship, Farmer Bill’s Treehouse, Woodland Adventure
- Gem Mine & Diggers
- Molly’s Market
- Daily puppet shows
Admission: Same as fall ($25+tax for 3+; free for 2 & under)
On-Site Dining:
- Annabelle’s (snacks & ice cream)
- Farmer’s Table (burgers, hot dogs, meals)
- MacIntosh’s CiderHouse (wood-fired pizza, gluten-free/dairy-free options, Saunders cider)
A Midsummer Night’s Scream (August 9)
One night only—a preview of FrightFest with select haunted attractions open for a special summer scare event. Great for those who can’t wait until fall!
A Country Christmas (December 6 - 30)
A Country Christmas transforms the farm into an immersive holiday village
After FrightFest ends, the farm transforms into what they market as “Ottawa’s only immersive Christmas experience.”
Daytime Activities (December 6-30):
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Bear Factory | Custom bear building workshop |
| Mrs. Claus’ Cookie Class | Cookie decorating (sponsored by Food Basics) |
| North Pole Post Office | Write letters to Santa |
| Reindeer Food Workshop | Create reindeer food to take home |
| The Elf Academy | Elf-training experience for kids |
| Christmas Puppet Show | ”Mazey the Maze Tree Finds Her Star” |
| Meet & Greet with Santa | Santa’s cozy cabin for photos and wish lists |
| Hedge Mazes | All farm mazes accessible, lit for evening atmosphere |
| World’s Largest Wreath | Run-through attraction |
| Witch’s Mountain Slide | 40-foot slide, holiday-themed |
| Arcade | Holiday games |
| Wagon Rides | Farm tours through holiday displays |
| Bonfires & Warming Cabins | Outdoor heating areas |
Nighttime: Holiday Light Stroll
- 15-25 minute walk through illuminated forest paths
- NEW Feature: Arboreal Lux forest walk with artistic light installations
- Night Market: Gift shopping, festive snacks
- Staggered, timed ticketing prevents overcrowding
Dining & Shopping:
- MacIntosh’s CiderHouse (wood-fired pizza, hot cider)
- The Farmshop (seasonal gifts, homemade treats)
- Festive food stalls (hot chocolate, candy, treats)
Admission: General admission from ~$20+ (specific 2025 pricing varies)
Visitor Feedback: Families praise the magical atmosphere, manageable crowds, and quality production. The experience is described as enchanting for both children and adults.
School Field Trips (May - October)
Available Wednesday through Friday:
- Flexible group packages with varying price points
- Educational focus: farming, nature, sustainability
- Environmental tours for bus groups
- Contact info@saundersfarm.com for custom quotes
Private Events & Birthday Parties
Birthday Parties:
- Year-round availability (specific seasons for certain events)
- Holly Jolly Birthday Parties: December 1-23, Saturdays & Sundays, 10 AM - 4 PM
- Limited spots; book in advance
Private Events:
- Corporate picnics and retreats
- Wedding venue with full catering services
- Pavilion seating for 250 people with state-of-the-art kitchen
- Highly rated for event coordination and food quality
- Church groups, ball teams, fundraisers welcome
Getting to Saunders Farm
The farm is located in rural Munster, about 25-30 minutes from downtown Ottawa
Address
7893 Bleeks Road, Munster, ON K0A 3P0
From Downtown Ottawa (25-30 minutes)
- Take Highway 417 West
- Exit at Carp Road / Highway 7
- Turn south on Carp Road
- Turn west on Bleeks Road
- Follow signs to Saunders Farm
From Central Ottawa: Approximately 40 minutes
From Kanata (20-25 minutes)
- Take Highway 417 West to Carp Road
- Follow directions above
From Stittsville (15-20 minutes)
- Head west on Hazeldean Road
- Turn south on Carp Road
- Turn west on Bleeks Road
Distances from Major Areas
| Location | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Ottawa | 25 km | 25-30 min |
| Central Ottawa | 35 km | 35-40 min |
| Kanata | 15 km | 20-25 min |
| Stittsville | 8 km | 15-20 min |
| Barrhaven | 20 km | 20-25 min |
| Orleans | 45 km | 40-45 min |
| Ottawa Airport | 40 km | ~40 min |
Parking
- FREE on-site parking with large capacity
- Wide paved/gravel pathways accommodate strollers and wagons
- Staff direct traffic during busy periods
- Arrive early on weekends to avoid the rush—lots can fill by noon on perfect fall days
Transit Notes
- No practical public transit option
- Requires car, Uber, or carpool
- Waze/Google Maps navigation available
Practical Tips for Visiting
What to Wear & Bring
Footwear is CRITICAL:
- Rain boots or waterproof hiking shoes are absolutely essential
- Ground becomes extremely muddy after rain
- Avoid sandals, white sneakers, or anything you can’t get dirty
Bring These Items:
- Extra socks (mandatory for Jumbo Jumpers—shoes must be removed!)
- Garbage bag to sit on during hayride (benches often damp)
- Rain jacket or waterproof layer (farm operates rain or shine)
- Layers for changing temperatures
For FrightFest:
- Avoid long, flowing costumes (trip hazard in dark attractions)
- Skip elaborate makeup (you’ll sweat it off)
- Comfortable shoes for 3+ hours of walking
Food & Drink On-Site
Saunders Farm has multiple food options, but be prepared for higher prices:
Dining Locations:
- Annabelle’s: Snacks & ice cream
- Farmer’s Table: Burgers, hot dogs, poutine, fresh-cut fries
- MacIntosh’s CiderHouse: Wood-fired pizza (gluten-free/dairy-free options), craft beer, Saunders Cider
Beverage Options:
- Cold drinks, craft beer
- Saunders Cider (made on-site since 2021)
- Hot apple cider (seasonal)
Price Reality Check: One family reported spending $81.36 for family-size poutine, 3 burgers, hotdog, 3 juices, 1 pop. Budget accordingly or pack your own food.
Can You Bring Your Own Food?
Official Policy: Outside food/beverages not officially permitted
Reality: Many visitors report bringing packed meals anyway. Picnic areas are available for daytime visits. Consider packing lunches for daytime visits if budget is a concern.
Best Times to Visit
| Period | Crowd Level | Wait Times | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Sept (FrightFest) | Very Low | 15-30 min | Best for horror fans; save money on tickets |
| Mid-Sept (pre-Oct 22) | Low | 30-45 min | Good balance; weekday optimal |
| Oct 22-31 (“Halloweek”) | Extreme | 60-90+ min | Avoid unless Halloween priority |
| Late Oct Weekends | Extreme | 90-120+ min | Worst time; often oversold |
| Weekdays (off-season) | Low | 15-30 min | Best overall experience |
| December (Christmas) | Moderate | 20-40 min | Timed entry prevents excessive crowding |
How Long to Spend
| Event | Recommended Duration |
|---|---|
| PumpkinFest (Daytime) | 3-5 hours (full experience) |
| Summer Maze Days | 3-4 hours |
| FrightFest | 2-3 hours (expect to visit 2-3 of 7 attractions) |
| A Country Christmas (Daytime) | 2-3 hours |
| Holiday Light Stroll (Night) | 45 min - 1 hour |
Accessibility
- Paved pathways available for limited accessibility
- Easy-access washrooms
- Some attractions NOT wheelchair-accessible due to terrain (mazes, certain play structures)
- Wagon rides may be uncomfortable for mobility-device users (rough, high speed)
- Contact farm directly for specific accessibility questions
Pet Policy
- Pets NOT allowed at Saunders Farm during public events (insurance restriction)
- Service animals welcome
Comparison with Other Ottawa Area Farms
Quick Comparison Table
| Farm | Location | FrightFest Price | Haunted Attractions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saunders Farm | Munster | $74+ | 7 attractions | Scale, production quality |
| Cannamore Orchard | Crysler | $35 | 4 attractions (“Acres of Terror”) | Better value, scarier |
| Proulx Farm (Skreamers) | Orleans | ~$20 | Zombie run, haunted elements | Budget-friendly |
| Miller’s Farm | Manotick | FREE | None | Toddlers, budget families |
| Mountain Orchards | Kemptville | FREE | None (corn maze) | Free fall experience |
Detailed Competitor Breakdown
Cannamore Orchard (Best Direct Competitor):
- Price: $35/person versus Saunders $74+
- Attractions: 4 haunted experiences (2 haunted houses, hayride, spooky village)
- Unique Feature: “Acres of Terror” rated scarier than Saunders by some visitors
- Advantage: Significantly shorter lines
- Verdict: Better value; fewer attractions but less crowded and better scare factor
Proulx Farm “Skreamers” (Orleans):
- Price: ~$20/person (historic; confirm 2025 pricing)
- Attractions: Zombie run, haunted elements
- Advantage: Extremely affordable; serves dual-purpose fruit farm
- Verdict: Budget-friendly alternative; less elaborate than Saunders
Miller’s Farm (Manotick):
- Price: FREE admission
- Activities: Pre-picked pumpkins, farm animals, playground
- Advantage: Zero cost; great for toddlers
- Verdict: Best for budget-conscious families with young children
Mountain Orchards:
- Price: FREE admission
- Activities: Corn maze, playgrounds, free wagon rides to apple trees
- Bonus: Excellent apple donuts
- Verdict: Free fall experience; no haunted attractions
Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm (Pakenham):
- Focus: Winter/Christmas season
- Activities: Sledding, playground, tree cutting, bakery, food trucks
- Verdict: Worth the drive for holiday season; stunning scenery
Rosehill Ranch (White Lake):
- Activities: Pumpkins, corn maze, wagon rides, lake views
- Advantage: Scenic, less crowded
- Verdict: Hidden gem; quieter experience
Key Differences Summary
Saunders Farm dominates in scale, variety, and production quality but trades this for premium pricing and crowding. Competitive alternatives excel in specific niches:
- Best Scares at Lower Cost: Cannamore Orchard
- Best Budget Option for Young Kids: Miller’s Farm, Mountain Orchards (FREE)
- Best Holiday Scenery: Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm
- Best Hidden Gem: Rosehill Ranch
For more fall activities, check our guides to hiking trails around Ottawa and Winterlude Ottawa.
Pricing Summary Table (2025)
| Season | Activity | Base Admission | Extra Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring/Summer (May-Aug) | Summer Maze Days | $25/person + tax | Zipline (~$15), gem mine, food | Free for under 2 |
| Fall (Sept-Nov, Day) | PumpkinFest | $25/person + tax | Pumpkins ($0.89/lb, max $15), extras | Free for under 2 |
| Fall (Sept-Nov, Night) | FrightFest | $74+/person | Food, arcade, zipline | Not for under 12; RIP $89-129 |
| Winter (Dec) | A Country Christmas | ~$20+/person | Food, activities | Timed entry prevents crowds |
| Year-Round | Birthday Party | Contact farm | Varies | Limited December slots |
Historical Pricing Trends:
- January pre-sales: $17-$20/ticket
- Valentine’s sale: Alternative discounts
- Peak season (late Oct): Full price + premium rates
Recommendations by Visitor Type
For Families with Young Children (Ages 3-8)
Best Season: Summer Maze Days (May-Aug) or daytime PumpkinFest
Budget: $25/person admission + $15-30 for extras + $20-40 food
Expected Duration: 3-4 hours
Highlights: Playgrounds (Pirate Ship, Treehouse), wagon rides, splash pad, mazes, Witch’s Mountain slide
Tip: Bring packed lunch; skip FrightFest entirely
For Families with Older Kids (Ages 9-12)
Best Season: September - early October (PumpkinFest/early FrightFest)
Budget: $25/person daytime OR $60-70/person for mild evening FrightFest
Expected Duration: 4 hours daytime; 2-3 hours evening
Highlights: Corn mazes, pumpkin picking, daytime haunts
Tip: Test daytime haunts first; Halloween evening may be too intense
For Adults & Thrill-Seekers
Best Season: September weekday evenings (FrightFest off-peak)
Budget: Buy January tickets (~$20) + revisit in October ($0 cost)
Expected Duration: 2-3 hours
Highlights: All 7 haunted attractions, zipline, stage shows
Tip: Arrive early to maximize attraction visits; expect 2-3 of 7
For Budget-Conscious Families
Option 1: Visit competitor farms (Cannamore $35, Miller’s free, Mountain Orchards free)
Option 2: Buy Saunders tickets in January ($17-20) and use anytime
Option 3: Daytime PumpkinFest only ($25) with packed lunch
Tip: Skip evening FrightFest unless scare experience is priority
For Holiday Gatherings (December)
Option: A Country Christmas with daytime + night stroll
Budget: ~$20-40/person with moderate food spending
Advantage: Timed entry prevents overcrowding; magical atmosphere
Tip: Book online; arrive 15-20 min early for smooth check-in
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is Saunders Farm open?
Saunders Farm operates seasonally from May through December with distinct experiences: Summer Maze Days run May 31 to August 31; PumpkinFest runs weekends from mid-September through October plus daily during Halloweek (October 22-31); FrightFest runs Friday and Saturday nights September 20 to November 1 (plus nightly during Halloweek); A Country Christmas runs December 6-30.
Q: How much is admission to Saunders Farm?
PumpkinFest and Summer Maze Days daytime admission is $25 per person plus tax (children 2 and under are free). FrightFest evening admission starts at $74 per person in 2025, with RIP Fast Pass tickets ranging $89-129. A Country Christmas admission starts around $20 per person. Pumpkins are sold separately at $0.89 per pound with a $15 maximum.
Q: Is FrightFest actually scary?
Yes, FrightFest is genuinely scary and rated Canada’s #1 haunted attraction. It features 7 professionally designed haunted attractions with live actors trained through an in-house “Ghoul School” program that costs $10,000 per day to operate. Expect startle scares, chainsaws, pyrotechnics, and psychological horror. It’s recommended for ages 12 and older and not suitable for young children or those with heart conditions.
Q: How do I get cheap FrightFest tickets?
The best way to save is buying during the January pre-sale (typically $17-20 per ticket) or Valentine’s Day sale when tickets are discounted 50-60%. Subscribe to the farm’s email newsletter for alerts. Otherwise, purchase early season (September) tickets which are cheaper than late October, or look for weekday Halloweek pricing.
Q: Where is Saunders Farm located?
Saunders Farm is at 7893 Bleeks Road in Munster, Ontario—about 25-30 minutes southwest of downtown Ottawa. Take Highway 417 West, exit at Carp Road, then follow Bleeks Road to the farm. Free parking is available on-site.
Q: What should I wear to Saunders Farm?
Wear waterproof boots or shoes you don’t mind getting muddy—this is absolutely essential as the farm becomes extremely muddy after rain. Dress in layers as fall temperatures vary. Bring extra socks (mandatory for Jumbo Jumpers where shoes must be removed) and a garbage bag to sit on during hayrides (benches are often damp). For FrightFest, wear comfortable walking shoes and avoid long costumes.
Q: Can I bring my own food?
Outside food and beverages are officially not permitted, but many visitors report bringing packed meals anyway. Picnic areas are available for daytime visits. On-site dining is expensive—one family reported spending $81.36 for a family meal—so packing food can help with budget.
Q: How long should I plan to spend at Saunders Farm?
Plan 3-5 hours for PumpkinFest or Summer Maze Days to experience mazes, playgrounds, wagon rides, and food. FrightFest takes 2-3 hours including wait times, but expect to only visit 2-3 of the 7 haunted attractions due to lines. A Country Christmas takes 2-3 hours daytime plus 45 minutes to 1 hour for the Holiday Light Stroll.
Q: Is Saunders Farm good for toddlers?
Yes, PumpkinFest and Summer Maze Days are excellent for toddlers with age-appropriate activities like the splash pad, Jumbo Jumpers, pedal karts, Pirate Ship playground, and wagon rides. The maze system has easy paths for young children. Children 2 and under get free admission. FrightFest is NOT appropriate for toddlers or young children.
Q: Are dogs allowed at Saunders Farm?
No, pets are not permitted at Saunders Farm during public events due to insurance restrictions. Service animals are allowed. The farm has animals on-site, so leaving pets at home is required.
Q: Will I be able to do all 7 FrightFest attractions in one night?
Likely not. Due to wait times (45-90+ minutes per attraction during peak periods), most visitors can only experience 2-3 haunted attractions in one evening. For the best chance of seeing more, visit on early season dates (September) or weekday evenings when lines are shorter (15-45 minutes).
Q: How does Saunders Farm compare to Cannamore Orchard?
Cannamore Orchard in Crysler offers “Acres of Terror” at $35/person compared to Saunders’ $74+ pricing. While Saunders has 7 haunted attractions versus Cannamore’s 4, some visitors rate Cannamore’s scares as more intense. Cannamore also has significantly shorter wait times. Saunders offers better scale and production quality, but Cannamore provides better value for the scare-focused visitor.
Q: What’s the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
The best times are early September (FrightFest opening weekends), weekday evenings, or daytime visits during non-holiday weekends. Avoid late October weekends and Halloweek (October 22-31) when crowds are extreme and wait times can exceed 90-120 minutes. For A Country Christmas, timed ticketing helps manage crowds, but book in advance.
Final Thoughts
Saunders Farm has earned its reputation as Ottawa’s premier fall destination and Canada’s #1 haunted attraction. While prices have increased significantly in 2025—with FrightFest now starting at $74—the scale, variety, and production quality justify the cost for most visitors seeking a complete seasonal experience.
For the best value, buy tickets during the January or Valentine’s Day sale (saving 50-60%), visit on September weekdays when crowds are lightest and prices are lowest, and pack your own snacks if budget is a concern. Most importantly, wear waterproof boots—the farm gets extremely muddy, and nothing ruins a day faster than soggy sneakers.
For budget-conscious families, consider alternatives like Cannamore Orchard ($35), Miller’s Farm (free), or Mountain Orchards (free) for fall fun without the premium price tag.
Whether you’re introducing young children to their first pumpkin patch, navigating the world’s largest collection of hedge mazes, seeking genuine terror at FrightFest, or experiencing the magic of A Country Christmas, Saunders Farm delivers an experience that has kept Ottawa families coming back for nearly 50 years—and counting.
Sources: Saunders Farm, Ottawa Tourism, TripAdvisor, r/ottawa, 613Today
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