What Is: Family Activities?
Farms offering a variety of family activities have become popular day-trip destinations as urban and suburban families seek to connect with nature and farmers to expand the income potential of their acreage. Along with the traditional pony rides, berry picking during the summer, apple and pumpkin picking in the fall and Christmas tree cutting in December, small farms now offer numerous nature-related activities as well as accommodations for parties, family reunions, picnics and weddings. Children's offerings may include pony and hayrides, viewing and petting farm animals, farm demonstrations and educational presentations, and themed corn mazes in varying degrees of complexity; many farms also offer programs and tours for school field trips. Families may purchase homegrown and other local produce, baked goods and other items from the venue's farm stand or farmer's market; some farms also serve meals in cafe or bistro-style eateries. Seasonal festivals abound during the summer and fall and often include live musical entertainment; admission charges vary depending upon the event.