As autumn paints the Swiss landscape with hues of red, orange, and gold, families with young kids in Zurich and its surroundings seek seasonal activities to embrace the Autumn Festivities. If that's what you're after- then this is just the one for you! Halloween isn't Halloween without a jaunt at the Jucker Farm. In fact, we plan to go already next week, getting in early on the pumpkin action! Nestled just a short journey from Zurich, Jucker Farm awaits with open arms, offering an enchanting day out for families with young children.
Before we dive into the excitement of the present, let's step back in time and uncover the roots of Jucker Farm. Established in the 1970s, this family-owned farmstead has transformed over the years into a beloved Swiss institution and a cherished destination for families.
The heart of autumn at Jucker Farm beats with the rhythm of its annual Pumpkin Show at their various locations. Each year there's a different theme, which also varies across the different locations, so be sure to check that in advance of going.
Due to where we live Seegräben is our preferred location. But only on the weekend, when the 846 bus runs. Otherwise the trek from Aathal is a bit too step with two kids in a buggy.
Anyway, we went 3 times last season, so we manage it ;) But if we are going during the week we would definitely go to the Bächlihof, Jona location as it's significantly better served by public transport mid-week.
The big wow-factor for my two are the giant figures/statues*. They make for the best pictures of towering pumpkin clumps and slack-jawed toddlers. It's the perfect Venn Diagramm of vibrant pumpkins, artistry and agriculture. We're not quite there yet with our 3 and 5 year olds, but there's a lot to learn too- there are pumpkin-themed exhibitions to explore, where you can learn about the different pumpkin varieties that grace the farm's fields.
But once we've gawked sufficently at the towering statues, it's on to the layered straw-bale play-grounds, dis-used tractors, petting farm enclosures, climbing into the goat feeding area 'Geisslipark', randomly running up and down hills and of course the food...
The pumpkins chips with garlic mayo...are the thing! Don't say I didn't tell you!
In that sense, Jucker Farm is more than just pumpkins; it's a place of endless activities....from apple picking in the orchards to navigating corn mazes, there's something for everyone. Make sure you bring cash, as ever in Switzerland, because 95% of the activities are completely free, including the admission, but access to the maze, for example, has a cash only entry fee, or at least it did in previous years.
But honestly we've never need to take on any of the paid activities, just roaming around from one section to the next does it for us. On a sunny day, we could spend a good 4 hours rambling about.
Exploring Jucker Farm is sure to work up an appetite, so no greater excuse for a picnic. You can definitely indulge in hearty Swiss cuisine at the farm's restaurants, savor freshly baked bread, and try their famous pumpkin pie. There's a farm shops and Bratwurst (sausage) stall and Grill. But if you pick up a few organic farm specialities and also bring your own staples there'll be plenty of space on the grounds for a picnic. There are also plenty of picnic tables, but those are clearly marked with a sign saying 'no picnics!'. All the more reason to bring your studio huske Gallivant picnic mat, as unsurprisingly it does get pretty busy on a sunny Sunday in October, and you can always set yourself on the ample green spaces looking down over the Pfäffiker Lake.
One of the beauties of Jucker Farm is its accessibility from Zurich via public transport. For Seegräben, take the train to Uster, and the 846 (weekends only) to Seegräben, Gemeindehaus, which runs quite frequently The short 5 minute walk is stroller friendly, so that's our preference. Alternatively you can get the S14 all the way to Aathal, which a significanlty longer and steeper distance from there, as mentioned above. Do keep in mind that the S14 to Aathal runs every 30 mins, so try to time your journeys well to avoid a 27 minute wait- as has happened to us!
As previously mentioned- amidst the fields and orchards of Jucker Farm, you'll find countless spots to rest, relax, and enjoy a picnic. So, of course, we highly recommend bringing your Studio Huske picnic mat for added comfort and style- and it's wipe-clean super-power! Whether you're sharing a meal or taking a break, your mat will enhance your experience. It's one of those situations where choosing your own spot to eat with your mat will come in pretty handy.
From pumpkin picking to joyful laughter, this day trip has so much to offer; it's such a feast for the eyes, and really gets us in the Autumn mood, so it's definitely become a cherished family memory-maker for us in recent years.
In that sense a trip to Jucker Farm is about more than a pumpkin patch; it's a place where family traditions are born and memories are made. So, pack your Studio Huske picnic mat, hop on the train from Zurich, and prepare for a day of laughter, exploration, and pumpkin-filled joy at Jucker Farm. Your autumn adventure awaits! Do let me know if you go!
*The pictures shown are from last year's exhibition, I'll add a few new ones as we go.
Further information:
Opening timesAddress: Juckerhof
Kate is owner and founder of studio huske, a swiss-based kids interior-products brand which is dedicated to developing premium quality, phase-less. genderless, robust, wipeable children's products. The range celebrates texture and colour and textiles which appeal to both the adult and the child's eye alike. Produced sustainably in small batches in Korea, the vegan leather textile used is OEKOtex 100 certified and has a Korean eco label. Studio huske products are intended to be a daily support in the lives of both parents and children. Designed by an architect mother for her own kids- by parents for parents.
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