This year’s masterfully designed Amazing Maize Maze opens with a three-day run Saturday, Sept. 3 through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5. Opening weekend hours will be 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. each day.

After the first weekend, the maze will be open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 13. Friday hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday operating times will be 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Starting the last Friday in September, special “flashlight” activities will be held each Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. throughout October, and on into the first weekend in November.

For Rural Hill, a carefully maintained 265-acre historical homestead off Neck Road that is part of the Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation program and supported through membership and donations, the Amazing Maize Maze has become a fall tradition and, along with spring’s Scottish Festival and Loch Norman Highland Games, a major event on the facility’s annual calendar.

The estimated time for successful navigation of this year’s “Fit to be Amazed” maze is between one and two hours, depending on the skill involved and exactly what type of refreshments those tackling the maze decide to enjoy. Concessions will be available during maze operating hours and, on Saturdays and Sundays, Rural Hill will also offer hay rides and other attractions.

Admission to the Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze is $10 for ages 13 and older, $7 for those 5-12 and free for children ages 4 and younger. There are group discounts available and plans for groups should be confirmed by calling 704-875-3113. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or in advance at www.ruralhill.net.