By Arden White | Staff Intern
The Futch family reopened its ranch to guests Saturday, Oct. 3, as part of the fourth annual Fox Squirrel Corn Maze. It will continue on Saturdays and Sundays in October, until Sunday, Oct. 25.
Stalks of corn grow over 7 feet tall in a field off Charlie Taylor Road, but there are many other things for guests to do, including duck races, cornhole, dummy steer roping, horseshoes, sandboxes filled with corn kernels and crafts.
“Families from all over Central Florida love to come spend part of their weekend with us,” Janet Futch, co-owner of the corn maze, said. “It’s really a great time for the kids and their parents. The teenagers seem to have a lot of fun too.”
There are also hayrides and a pumpkin patch. And adults will like a general store with country-style gifts and furniture.
“We are proud of all of our activities, but I must talk about our amazing pumpkin patch,” Janet Futch said. “In fact, it was actually named one of the top five pumpkin patches in Central Florida.”
Janet Futch and her two brothers, Wayne and Carson Futch, have been operating the corn maze since 2012. They originally came up with the idea to have one on Christmas 2011. Since then it has been family operated, although they do get some help from volunteering teenagers.
“It’s a working cattle ranch, but we wanted a way to entertain people,” Janet Futch said. “So, on Christmas while we were sitting around thinking about ways we could do that, my brother, Wayne, mentioned a corn maze.”
James Horne was one of the many people to enjoy what the corn maze had to offer on opening weekend.
“I really enjoyed the relaxed nature of everything,” Horne said. “I think it’s good to have in Plant City because it’s a family-friendly event that you can enjoy.”
The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze has been a success the past three years, and the Futch family is hoping for the same turnout this year.
“I think no matter your age, it’s something that you can enjoy,” Janet Futch said. “I just love being able to share our land and heritage with the community. It’s very laid back, and I get to see everyone leave with a smile.”
For questions about prices, directions, the corn maze, recipes, upcoming events and contact information go to FoxSquirrelCornMaze.com.
IF YOU GO
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; gates close at 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in October (excluding Halloween weekend)
WHERE: 3002 Charlie Taylor Road
COST: $11, adults; $10, kids; free for kids 2 and under.
INFO: FoxSquirrelCorn Maze.com.