The Story Behind the Epiphany Parish Pumpkin Patch
Celebrating 20 years this fall!
19 October 2025
Pam Driscoll, the initiator, and Ali DiPasca, now the coordinator, at the pumpkin patch.
Walpole’s Epiphany Parish Pumpkin Patch celebrates its twentieth anniversary this autumn. Initiated by former parishioner Pam Driscoll, the pumpkin patch has become an established downtown tradition since 2006. Pam noted that the early years presented challenges but were rewarding, with her family dedicating significant time each October to ensuring the patch's upkeep.
Pam’s love of pumpkins stems from sharing her birthday with Halloween. Inspired by a dream, she proposed a pumpkin patch at Epiphany Parish, which her parents and church supported. The parish now hosts community events in the patch, including parties, photo sessions, and family celebrations.
Pam described the pumpkin patch as a gathering place similar to a local coffee shop, where community members share diverse experiences. She remarked on the therapeutic and restorative atmosphere the patch provides, particularly following the loss of her parents, and reflected on meaningful memories tied to the location.
Alison (Ali) DiPasca, a fellow Walpole resident and parishioner, is now coordinating the operational logistics essential to the patch’s continued success. Pam acknowledged Ali’s pivotal role in sustaining and expanding the initiative over the years.
Currently, more than 1,000 organizations partner with Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers, the primary pumpkin supplier for Epiphany Parish. Established in 1974 by Richard and Janice Hamby in North Carolina, Pumpkin Patch Fundraisers began by cultivating three acres of pumpkins and partnering with local churches through informal agreements based on mutual trust and handshakes. The farming operations have since relocated to the Navajo Indian Reservation in Farmington, New Mexico, with approximately 1,200 acres under cultivation. Each harvest season, the operation employs over 700 Native Americans and is supported by a year-round, all-Native American staff. This partnership positively contributes to a region historically affected by very high unemployment rates. Buying a pumpkin at the Epiphany Parish Pumpkin Patch supports both the Epiphany Parish and the Indigenous workers who grow the pumpkins.
Alison noted that in addition to supporting the Epiphany Parish by purchasing pumpkins, the pumpkin patch also features fall plants and decor for sale – all sourced from Pioneer Farms in Walpole. Baked goods and crafts produced by the members and extended community of Epiphany Parish are also available for purchase.
Come to the Epiphany Parish Pumpkin Patch at 62 Front Street directly across from Walpole Town Common to enjoy the vibrant orange pumpkin setting for photos and create memories that will last a lifetime!