Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Little Pistol Farms Brings Pumpkins & Affordable Family Fun to Kalamazoo This Fall

“Home of the Great Pumpkins” carries on tradition after beloved pumpkin destination closure

Oshtemo Township, MI — September 2025 — When Kalamazoo lost local legend Gene the Pumpkin Man, families across Kalamazoo County felt the loss of a cherished fall tradition. This year, Little Pistol Farms is stepping forward to carry the torch, welcoming the community with u-pick and pre-picked pumpkins, fresh produce, and simple, affordable fall fun just minutes from where Gene’s once stood.

Little Pistol Farms, a family-run operation on 29 acres in Oshtemo Township, has dedicated its fields to growing 16,000 pumpkin plants across 24 varieties — from small decorative gourds to show-stopping giants weighing hundreds of pounds. The farm has earned the nickname “Home of the Great Pumpkins,” thanks to its 9 Dill’s Atlantic Giants, each lovingly named after the characters of The Three Stooges and The Brady Bunch. These orange giants are quickly becoming a favorite photo-op for visitors of all ages.

“When Gene’s closed, we felt a hole in our own family’s fall traditions,” said Ken Schneider, co-owner of Little Pistol Farms. “We grew up visiting the pumpkin patch, picking out carving pumpkins, and spending crisp fall days together outdoors. We wanted to bring that same joy back — but in a way that stays affordable and accessible for families today.”

Little Pistol Farms’ farmstand has already grown in popularity this summer providing the local community with farm fresh tomatoes, melons, pumpkins, squash, and more – all grown on-site. This fall the stand will be stocked with in-season produce and other farm related merchandise.  Families can wander the pumpkin patch, explore the farmstand, and snap pictures with the Great Pumpkins, creating new memories that honor the spirit of Gene’s while planting roots for new traditions.

Little Pistol Farms has a mission of keeping fall fun simple and affordable. Pumpkins are priced by size so every family can find something within their budget. Alongside the pumpkins, the Schneiders are adding kid-friendly activities designed to bring people together without the high costs often associated with agritourism.

“Our kids are out in the field every day feeding, watering, and caring for these pumpkins with us. This farm has become our family mission and it's really brought our family closer,” said Katie Schneider, co-owner of Little Pistol Farms. “We believe God has truly blessed this farm — from the soil to the incredible harvest we’ve been given this year. It’s our joy to share those blessings with the community. Whether you come for a carving pumpkin for the porch, fun squash, a bag of fresh produce, or just to check out our giant pumpkins, we hope you leave with full arms and even fuller hearts.”

Families can join in the fun starting Friday, September 19, with u-pick pumpkins and fall activities open Fridays from 4–7 PM, Saturdays 10 AM–6 PM, and Sundays 11 AM–6 PM, through Halloween or while pumpkins last. For the latest updates, photos of the “Great Pumpkins,” and special announcements, check out Little Pistol Farms on Facebook and Instagram.

About Little Pistol Farms

Little Pistol Farms is a family-owned farm in Oshtemo Township, MI, cultivating over 50 varieties of seasonal produce across 29 acres. Specializing in pumpkins, squash, melons, and tomatoes, the farm is dedicated to reconnecting families with fresh food, local traditions, and the simple joys of life on “God’s green earth.”

Media Contact:
Katie Schneider, CEIEIO
Little Pistol Farms
269-849-6655
Email: contact@littlepistolfarms.com
Website: LittlePistolFarms.com

Follow @LittlePistolFarms on Facebook & Instagram for farm updates, dates and hours