For 52 years, the Pumpkin Patch Arts & Crafts Fair has welcomed the Manhattan community with a series of activities and local vendors to bring in the fall season. The Alpha Eta Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi at K-State hosted the event Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds benefited the Ronald McDonald House of Wichita.

Grayce Lynam, member of Alpha Delta Pi and primary planner of the event, said the Alpha Eta chapter has spearheaded the event since 2013, its 40th year. 

“This year was incredibly exciting,” Lynam said. “We had 37 vendors come through. And for the first time in a couple years, we also had pumpkins back in the pumpkin patch.” 

Attendees could buy pumpkins, artwork, home decor, jewelry, handmade and homemade goods to support the Ronald McDonald House, a nonprofit family & children’s charity dedicated to supporting families with sick children in their time of need, according to its website. 

According to the Alpha Eta Chapter, the fair welcomed 400 attendees. Community members who purchased items from vendors, participated in the raffle or made a donation supported Ronald McDonald House Charities Wichita, which has provided more than 7,779 free night stays in hospitals for children and their families, according to the organization. 

“You’re actually physically able to go see what the difference is when you’re serving your time and being able to see a sister who’s been affected,” Lynam said. “It is an event planned by one but supported by many.”

While the fair is a historical event for Manhattan, Lynam said the annual event will continue to highlight philanthropic initiatives while featuring the work of local and regional vendors for the season.