Bandy's is back with the next generation of leadership bringing new activities

JOHNSTON CITY - When Johna Bandy made the decision to keep Bandy's Pumpkin Patch closed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, she made a promise that the family business of 34 years would be back this year.

She was right.

The popular tourist attraction founded by Johna and her late husband, J.T., back in 1986 will open on Sept. 18, celebrating its 35th season with the next generation at the helm.

The family made the announcement via its social media pages over the weekend, sparking interest in just what would be added this year and who would be minding the store.

"After 34 years, the family business has been passed down to the next generation. We are excited to announce many changes! We will have new hours of operation, upgrades and new features and attractions to the pumpkin patch all while keeping the same small, family farm vibe. We are committed to keeping traditions alive and helping to create memories for years to come. We have many announcements coming up and will post a schedule of events as soon as everything is confirmed! Stay tuned! We hope to see you this fall! "

In an interview last summer, Johna said that annual pumpkin sales "easily top 100,000."

However, that's just the tip of the corn stalk.

There is also a play barn with several activities for the little ones and three-mile long, 10-acre corn maze. Hayrides and bonfires happen nightly during the season run.

Bandy's is scheduled to open on Sept. 18.