Racing Pigs, Playful Lemurs and Pumpkin Magic Take Over Fritz Park in Irving This October

IRVING, Texas - Ready, set, OINK! The pigs are racing, the lemurs are swinging, and the pumpkins are waiting to be picked at Fritz Park Farm in South Irving, where a month of Halloween fun is underway.

The Animal Connection Experience has returned for its fifth annual Pumpkin Patch celebration, bringing a barnyard full of furry friends, fall activities and a little spooky magic to families every weekend through Oct. 31, 2026.

Located at 312 E. Vilbig St., Fritz Park Farm is transforming into a fall playground where kids can feed goats, ride ponies, wander through a straw maze and cheer on racing pigs competing for NFL-themed glory.

And yes, there are even chickens that carve pumpkins.

Ready, Set, Oink! The Pig Races Are Back

Forget the Cowboys and Eagles rivalry for a moment. At Fritz Park, the biggest football competition might just involve four legs, a curly tail and a whole lot of squealing.

The farm's specially trained racing pigs take to the Fritz Park Racetrack, where each pig represents an NFL team. Families can pick their favorite and cheer as the speedy little competitors race toward the finish line.

There's no telling which pig will bring home bragging rights, but watching them race is sure to draw some laughs.

Not far from the racetrack, the farm's ring-tailed lemurs have their own way of entertaining visitors.

These energetic animals spend their days climbing branches, swinging and exploring their shaded enclosure. Visitors can watch their antics up close, although direct interaction is not permitted under USDA licensing requirements.

From Baby Goats to Pony Rides, There's Plenty of Barnyard Fun

The interactive petting zoo lets children get hands-on with some of the farm's friendliest residents.

Goats, sheep, chickens, ducks, pigs, alpacas and miniature cows are all part of the experience. Children can pet and brush the animals or purchase a cup of feed to make a few new four-legged friends.

For little cowboys and cowgirls, pony rides are available for children weighing less than 70 pounds.

The ponies are handled regularly and given frequent breaks throughout the day. When they're off duty, they have access to a wooded pasture with a flowing creek.

Plant a Magic Pumpkin Seed and See What Happens

One of the more unusual attractions at Fritz Park is the Magic Pumpkin Garden.

Children can purchase a magic pumpkin seed for $3, plant it in the garden and head off to explore the Straw Maze.

When they return, they'll discover what their little bit of pumpkin magic has produced.

Families can also explore the Pumpkin Patch and choose a Texas-grown pumpkin to take home for carving.

All pumpkins cost $10, regardless of size, and a portion of the proceeds benefits Irving Animal Services.

There's another pumpkin-carving attraction that doesn't require a knife in your hands.

The farm's chickens have their own pumpkin-carving activity, giving visitors a chance to watch the feathered artists at work. How exactly does a chicken carve a pumpkin? That's part of the fun of finding out.

Spooky Barn, Bone Digging and Halloween Games

For families who enjoy a little Halloween mischief without the nightmares, Fritz Park has several activity areas.

Kids can dig for bones in the Creepy Bone Dig, try their luck at Spooky Bowling, play cornhole or explore building blocks and a construction-themed play zone.

The Spooky Barn offers a family-friendly Halloween experience for visitors looking for a few chills. Parents must accompany their children through the attraction.

There are also fall-themed photo opportunities throughout the farm, with a professional photographer available most weekends. Families interested in professional photos should call ahead to check availability.

Hungry? The Boo Bakery Has You Covered

All that pig cheering, pony riding and pumpkin hunting can work up an appetite.

Fortunately, Fritz Park's Boo Bakery has plenty of treats for hungry little monsters and their grown-ups.

The menu includes hot dogs, nachos, Frito pies, Hot Cheetos nachos and Halloween-inspired desserts.

Visitors can also grab lemonade or try the farm's popular Witches Brew.

And for parents with infants, Fritz Park offers a private, air-conditioned mothers' lounge with rocking chairs, a changing table, supplies and a small book nook to keep toddlers entertained.

How Much Does the Animal Connection Experience Cost?

The Animal Connection Experience is operated by Westland Ranch LLC in partnership with the City of Irving. The partnership began in summer 2021.

Admission is affordable, with additional charges for certain activities.

The $11 child's combo package includes admission, a feed cup, pony ride and magic pumpkin seed.

Plan Your Visit to Fritz Park Farm

Plan Your Visit to Fritz Park Farm