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Keep growing at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard

Kristen Sindelar
Sep 29, 2023
Sep 29, 2023

Vala 1.jpeg — Apples grown in Vala’s orchard are processed in the Cider Mill, a new development at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard.
Submitted photo

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It’s hard to pinpoint the main crop growing on 450 acres southwest of Gretna, Nebraska.

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Vala 5.JPEG — You-pick flowers is a new addition to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Orchard.
Submitted photo

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Vala 2.JPEG — There are 40,000 trees of 45 different varieties growing in the orchard at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard. Guests can return multiple times during the season for you-pick apples.
Submitted photo

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Vala 6.JPG — A three-acre corn maze pays tribute to the 20th year of Pumpkin Creek Railroad at Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Orchard.
Submitted image

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Vala 7.JPEG — Guests can sip on Vala’s cider throughout the entire farm or sit down at the new Barrel Barn, a cider bar in a restored barn.
Submitted photo

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Vala 3.JPEG — The cider production room is visible from a large window overhead so guests can watch apples being pressed into juice.
Submitted photo

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Vala 4.JPEG — Hard cider ages in ex-spirit kegs and becomes infused with a hint of bourbon, tequila or gin.
Submitted photo

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.