Shelton‑Derby Weekend Guide: Pumpkin Picking & Hocus Pocus Fun

Looking for something to do this weekend that feels unmistakably autumn? You’ve come to the right place. Shelton’s own Jones Family Farms is winding down its pumpkin season, but they’re keeping the lights on a little longer with extended hours on Friday.

From 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (and a special golden‑hour window until 6 p.m.) you can wander the farmyard, dodge a tiny corn maze, stroll a nature trail, and say hello to the resident animals. Tickets are timed, so snag a spot online for the best price—though the Grab‑and‑Go tent is open for walk‑ins if you’re feeling spontaneous. A quick heads‑up: pets aren’t allowed inside the farmgrounds.

And if you’ve got a teen or a crew of movie‑loving kids, swing by the Derby Neck Library Thursday for a little after‑school “Scream and Feast.” At 2 p.m., teenagers vote on a PG‑13 horror flick, then chow down on snacks. At 4:30 p.m., the library rolls out “Tales and Tunes: Hocus Pocus,” a musical retelling of the Sanderson Sisters saga that’s perfect for younger listeners. Both events are free, and the library’s vibe is cozy enough to make you forget you’re in a public building.

Here’s a quick recap: Thursday – Hocus Pocus at 4:30 p.m. and teen movie night at 2 p.m. at the Derby Neck Library, 307 Hawthorne Avenue, Derby. Friday – golden‑hour pumpkin picking until 6 p.m. at Jones Family Farms, 120 Beardsley Road, Shelton. Bring a camera for that perfect sunset‑lit pumpkin shot, and maybe a reusable bag for your haul.

Whether you’re hunting the perfect pumpkin for carving, or just looking for a low‑key Halloween treat, the Shelton‑Derby area has you covered. Enjoy the crisp air, the scent of hay, and the occasional cackle of a nearby “witch” (okay, maybe just the kids). Have a great weekend!