The Pumpkin Patch, a Social Party

The 2026 edition also features Paolo Siani, advisor to the Giancarlo Siani Foundation, brother of the journalist killed by the Camorra, to promote the campaign against cyberbullying. "The Pumpkin Patch Garden" is the annual event that transforms Pignataro Maggiore into an autumnal destination dedicated to pumpkins, marigolds, and conviviality. The heart of the experience is always choosing a pumpkin: after locating it in the garden, it's transported on the original "red wagons," the characteristic red carts, and then there's room for imagination in the carving and painting workshop, following a tradition reminiscent of American pumpkin patches. But there's another place designed by Emily that makes the experience unique, combining nature, aesthetics, and spirituality: "The Marigold Garden." Native to Mexico, the marigold is known worldwide as the flower of sunshine and memory. A symbol of light and renewal, its petals, ranging from golden yellow to intense orange, represent the continuity of life and the beauty of change. "The marigold garden," Emily explains, "is designed to be experienced slowly: the flowers are contemplated and can be used to create beautiful bouquets. Between the rows is a New England-style glass greenhouse, a small poetic refuge where you can express your desires, where the flowers are left to dry naturally, transforming the passing of time into beauty."

The pumpkin patch is faithful to the American fall season, where families choose and carve pumpkins. It was born in 2016 from an idea by Emily, who grew up in Italy and New England, and eventually came to Caserta, where you can enjoy a truly American experience until November 2nd. "The end of September," Turino explains, "is a truly special time for autumn lovers: it marks the arrival of their favorite season and the opening of their favorite garden, complete with a new corn pool for diving, while awaiting Halloween and new adventures in the haunted maze. Founded by a family-run farm, it's also the only one in Italy to produce its own pumpkins."

The garden is "green," made with compostable materials, an ode to the autumn season, pumpkins, farm work, nature, and animals, with a double corn maze: one designed for orientation and fun, and the other haunted, which at the end of October transforms into a true "rural nightmare" with new, spooky settings. Pumpkin-based street food is designed to suit everyone's tastes and needs: from pizza to gnocchi to vegan options. And for true American autumn enthusiasts: "pumpkin space latte" and "pumpkin bread" baked by Emily's mother, Elvira. The tenth edition will also be an opportunity to shine a spotlight on a highly topical issue. Paolo Siani is partnering with Emily Turino to promote an awareness campaign to combat cyberbullying, bringing a message to the garden, especially aimed at younger generations, about the importance of conscious and respectful use of the internet. And this year, Emily is once again embracing the "Luoghi d'Autunno" project, launched to create a national network of restaurateurs, hoteliers, and shops celebrating the season with special events, dishes, and dedicated initiatives. Those who join receive the official sticker and are included in the Italian map of places that share a love of autumn.