Just 30 Minutes From Tampa, This Fall Festival Comes With Capybaras and Highland Cows

Looking for the perfect fall adventure that combines pumpkins, farm animals, and unforgettable animal encounters? DK Farms & Gardens in Largo brings all the autumn magic you could want, featuring everything from adorable capybaras to fuzzy Highland cows. This family-friendly festival runs throughout October and offers way more than your typical pumpkin patch.

Whether you’re craving hayrides, petting zoos, or even a haunted attraction after dark, this hidden gem delivers serious fall vibes without the long drive from Tampa.

1. Capybara Encounters That’ll Melt Your Heart

Meet the stars of DK Farms: the capybaras. These gentle giants act like the chillest animals you’ll ever cuddle. Starting September 25th, 2026, the farm officially launched Capybara Encounters where you can actually hold, feed, and snap photos with these South American sweethearts.

Capybaras are known for their super calm personalities, making them perfect for kids and adults who want that Instagram-worthy moment. You’ll get hands-on time during your encounter, and trust me, feeding one of these guys is unlike anything else. They munch on their snacks with the most relaxed vibe imaginable.

The encounters book up fast because everyone wants capybara cuddles. Staff members guide you through the experience, answering questions and making sure both you and the animals have a great time. It’s educational too since you’ll learn about their natural habitat and behaviors.

These experiences cost extra beyond general admission, but they’re absolutely worth it. You’re supporting the care of these amazing creatures while creating memories that’ll last way longer than any souvenir. Pro tip: bring your phone fully charged because you’ll want about a hundred photos with your new capybara best friend.

2. Margo the Micro Mini Highland Cow Steals Every Show

Margo isn’t just any cow. She’s a micro mini Highland cow, which basically means she’s pocket-sized compared to regular cattle but comes with all that signature fluffy Highland hair. Her reddish-brown coat and those adorable bangs make her look like she just stepped out of a Scottish postcard, except she’s living her best life in sunny Florida.

The “Goat & Cow Encounter” gives you direct access to Margo and her small goat friends. You can take selfies, pet her incredibly soft fur, and just hang out with one of the cutest farm residents you’ll ever meet. She’s got personality for days and knows she’s the star attraction.

Highland cattle originally come from the rugged Scottish Highlands, bred to handle harsh weather. That thick coat that makes Margo so photogenic? It actually keeps her comfortable in different climates.

She’s surprisingly gentle despite those impressive horns, which are more for show than anything else.

Kids absolutely lose their minds over Margo because she’s closer to their size than a full-grown cow. Parents love her too because she’s patient during photo ops and doesn’t mind the attention. This encounter is included with certain ticket packages, making it easier to budget your farm visit while still getting quality animal time.

3. Weekend Admission Packs Serious Value

Saturdays and Sundays bring the full festival experience at DK Farms. Your weekend admission ticket unlocks a ridiculous amount of activities, way beyond just walking around looking at pumpkins. We’re talking hayrides bouncing through the farm, unlimited pumpkin patch access, a legit petting zoo, and even a mechanical bull if you’re feeling brave.

Mini golf adds another layer of fun with 18 holes that keep everyone entertained. The pedal carts let kids (and competitive adults) race around the property, burning off energy before hitting the bounce houses. There’s also a corn pit, which is basically a sandbox but way more farm-appropriate, plus outdoor games scattered throughout.

The rabbit touch area deserves special mention because those bunnies are unbelievably soft and friendly. Hand-washing stations are everywhere, so you can pet animals all day without worrying about cleanliness. Seating areas provide shade when you need a break from the Florida sun.

Festival hours run 10 AM to 7 PM on Saturdays and 10 AM to 4 PM on Sundays throughout October. Weekdays offer pumpkin patch access from 10 AM to 7 PM, but the full festival fun only happens on weekends. Arriving early gives you cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, especially important as the day heats up.

4. Pony Rides and Pumpkin Cannons Cost Extra But Deliver Thrills

Some experiences at DK Farms require additional payment beyond your admission ticket, and honestly, they’re designed that way to keep things affordable for families who want basics versus those craving the full adventure. Pony rides top the list of popular add-ons, giving younger kids a chance to saddle up and trot around with gentle, well-trained ponies.

Gem mining brings that treasure-hunting excitement where kids sift through sand to discover colorful stones they can take home. It’s messy, engaging, and surprisingly addictive even for parents who think they’re just supervising. The staff provides all the equipment and explains which gems you might find.

Then there’s the pumpkin cannon. Yes, you read that right. This thing launches pumpkins through the air with satisfying power, and watching gourds explode on impact never gets old.

It’s pure fall festival chaos in the best possible way, and everyone lines up for their turn.

These extras typically run between ten and twelve dollars per activity per person. That might sound steep until you realize how much entertainment value you’re getting. The farm uses this pricing model to maintain high-quality experiences and excellent animal care.

You can easily spend hours here even on basic admission, but splurging on a few add-ons takes your visit from good to absolutely legendary.

5. Fearville Haunted Attraction Brings Friday and Saturday Night Scares

When the sun goes down on Friday and Saturday nights, DK Farms transforms into something completely different. Fearville, their haunted attraction, opens from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, turning the peaceful farm into a seriously creepy experience. This isn’t some kiddie haunted house with fake cobwebs and one person in a ghost sheet.

The farm uses its natural darkness and outdoor setting to maximum effect. Shadows move differently when you’re surrounded by actual farm buildings and open spaces instead of enclosed hallways. Your imagination runs wild wondering what’s hiding behind that barn or lurking near the animal enclosures (don’t worry, the animals are safely tucked away).

Professional scare actors work Fearville, trained to deliver genuine frights without crossing safety lines. They know exactly when to jump out and how to read different groups. Some people love intense scares while others prefer milder thrills, and the actors adjust accordingly when possible.

This attraction costs separate admission from daytime festival activities. It’s designed for teens and adults who can handle legitimate horror elements. Younger kids should probably skip Fearville unless they’re serious horror fans.

The contrast between cuddling capybaras during the day and screaming through Fearville at night makes DK Farms incredibly unique among Florida fall destinations.

6. Food Vendors Serve Way More Than Basic Fair Snacks

Farm festivals and good food go together like pumpkins and spice, and DK Farms doesn’t disappoint. Their famous donuts have developed a serious following, made fresh and served warm with that perfect balance of crispy outside and soft, doughy inside. People literally plan their visits around donut availability.

Kettle corn provides that addictive sweet and salty crunch you’ll mindlessly eat by the handful. Fresh cider tastes nothing like the store-bought stuff, especially when it’s cold and refreshing on a warm October afternoon. The hand-squeezed lemonade hits different too, tart and sweet without that artificial syrup flavor.

Beyond the classics, various food vendors rotate through offering everything from savory meals to sweet treats. You won’t go hungry, and the quality exceeds typical festival food that’s usually overpriced and underwhelming. Adults appreciate the wine and beer options, making this genuinely enjoyable for parents who need refreshment beyond juice boxes.

Prices stay reasonable considering the quality and portions. The farm clearly partners with vendors who care about their product rather than just slinging whatever’s cheapest. Eating here becomes part of the experience rather than a necessary inconvenience.

Multiple seating areas with shade let you actually enjoy your food instead of juggling plates while standing in the sun.

7. Location Makes This Festival Ridiculously Accessible

DK Farms sits in Largo at 1750 Lake Ave SE, putting it about 40 minutes from Tampa depending on traffic. That’s close enough for an easy day trip but far enough to feel like you’ve actually escaped the city. No marathon road trip required, which matters when you’re wrangling kids or just want spontaneous fall fun.

The Pinellas County location means you’re also convenient to St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding beach communities. Locals from across the Tampa Bay area can reach this place without burning half their day in the car. Free parking is available right on site, eliminating that annoying hunt for spots or surprise parking fees.

Being tucked away in Largo gives DK Farms a hidden-gem quality that bigger, more commercial operations lack. You won’t find tour buses or overwhelming crowds like at some Central Florida attractions. The farm maintains that authentic, family-owned vibe while still offering professional-level experiences and well-maintained facilities.

Hours vary throughout the week, with weekday pumpkin patch access from 10 AM to 4 PM and expanded weekend festival hours. Calling ahead at 727-348-0818 or checking their website ensures you’ve got current information before making the drive. Google Maps will get you there easily, and the 4.4-star rating from over 800 reviews confirms this place delivers on its promises.

8. October Means Peak Fall Festival Season

October transforms DK Farms into fall festival central, running the entire month from the 1st through the 31st. This gives you maximum flexibility to plan around your schedule, weather preferences, and crowd tolerance. Early October often brings slightly warmer temperatures while late October delivers more authentic fall vibes, even in Florida.

The pumpkin patch stays open daily throughout October, but remember that weekends bring the full festival experience with all activities running. Weekdays work great if you want a quieter visit focused on pumpkins and basic animal interactions without the weekend energy and larger crowds.

Planning your visit for a Saturday gives you the longest hours, from 10 AM all the way to 7 PM. Sundays close earlier at 4 PM, so arrive with enough time to experience everything on your list. Weekday visits from 10 AM to 7 PM suit families with flexible schedules or those who homeschool.

October in Florida means you’re still dealing with warmth and humidity, so dress accordingly. Lightweight, breathable clothes work better than heavy fall sweaters, even though you’ll want those cozy autumn vibes. Sunscreen and hats remain essential.

The farm provides shade in various areas, but you’ll spend time outdoors under that Florida sun. Arriving during morning hours before peak heat makes everyone more comfortable and energetic for all those activities.