Pumpkin spice season will be in full swing as Whimsy Market hosts its 5th Annual Fall Festival this Saturday at Sunsational Farms in Umatilla. 

Set against the backdrop of rolling farmland and The Big Orange, the event has become one of the most anticipated community gatherings of the season. It began as a small local market, but has grown into a full-scale celebration of fall fun.

Founded by Erica Rew and Nikki Anderson, Whimsy Market began five years ago with the Fall Festival as a way to bring small businesses together and give them a place to connect with the community.

“We can’t rave about Sunsational Farms enough,” Nikki says. “They gave us our very first shot five years ago and when I approached them about hosting, they didn’t hesitate. It’s been a wonderful partnership ever since.”

Erica says the relationship works because both share the same ideals, are a family-run business and value community. 

Since that first year, the pair have built a loyal following of vendors and visitors alike, transforming Sunsational Farms into a fall wonderland each October. More than 80 local makers, artists and small businesses fill the property with handmade goods, vintage finds, seasonal décor and edible treats.

“We love seeing the returning vendors, many of whom have been with us since the very beginning,” Erica says. “And we’re always thrilled to welcome new faces and see all the supporters and customers come out and shop to support small businesses.”

Over time, the festival has expanded to include more experiences for all ages, like the Hunt’s Exotics petting zoo and a bar area for the adults. 

This year, the event also features pet adoptions from five local shelters, and a new partnership with Style Magazine.

“We were thrilled when Style approached us about partnering with local shelters, as we’re both animal lovers,” Nikki says. “We can’t wait to see how many pets get adopted because they get to interact with the visitors in a farm setting.”

Families attending the festival can enjoy carnival games with prizes, bounce houses, a pumpkin patch and a coloring station for kids. The farm’s large playground, complete with a red barn and twisty slide, offers even more fun. Food trucks and music from Next Up Entertainment will keep the energy high throughout the day, while the bartenders serve fall-inspired drinks, beer and wine.

Guests can stop by the Whimsy booth at The Big Orange to enter to win Whimsy’s signature giveaway basket, valued at more than $700 and packed with items donated by participating vendors.

The event is free to attend, open to all ages and held rain or shine. 

If You Go:

Whimsy Market Fall Festival
Saturday, Oct. 11. 11am-4pm.
Sunsational Farms, 40541 Roger Giles Road, Umatilla

For more info, visit the Facebook Event Link.

Admission: Free, held rain or shine
Parking: On-site at Sunsational Farms
Highlights: 80+ local vendors, pumpkin patch, food trucks, live DJ, bartender, bounce houses, carnival games, exotic petting zoo, pet adoptions and professional fall photos by Alison Law Photography
Insider tip: Remember cash is king but most vendors accept some form of electronic payment, wear comfortable shoes and plan to stay a while as there’s plenty to see, taste and enjoy. The farm is non-smoking, and no animals will be permitted except for service animals.

Photos provided by Alison Law Photography