Chengerians in Fulton is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year by bringing back what customers have missed for 10 years: hayrides.
“I asked [my customers], ‘What do you want from me this year?’ They all said, ‘Bring your hayrides back!’’” said owner Bob Chengerian. “So I approached [Terri Eggert] to bring them back …”
Later this month, new and returning patrons are invited to stop by the Christmas tree farm for an afternoon of family fun, including a daytime narrated children’s hayride called “Where’s Olaf?” featuring not only the snowman from the hit Disney movie “Frozen,” but also characters from other animated blockbusters.
“We used to call them hayrides, but these guys have stepped it up,” said Chengerian, referring to Terri Eggert and Fred Mellini, of Hauntrepreneurs Productions HP. “It’s a production now. It really is.”
Eggert is responsible for the memorable hayrides at Chengerians in the past.
“I still run into people … ‘When are you bringing Esmeralda back?’ I’ve been asked that question for the last 10 years,” Chengerian said.
Mellini will also be dressed in character for the audience.
So what can people expect at this family event? The ride, which is about 20 to 30 minutes long, will feature special effects, music, characters in costume and lots of interaction.
“I think they’re going to be surprised,” said Chengerian, who is thrilled to be hosting these upcoming attractions. “In the movie, you can see the animation. Here, you’re going to be a part of it.”
Children are encouraged to dress in costume, in fact, Chengerian is optimistic they will.
“Almost every person I’ve talked to has said their little girl already has an outfit,” he said.
The hayrides will be held from 12 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 13 and 14, and Sept. 20 and 21. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $6, ages 2 and under are free.
In addition to the hayrides, there will be festive food fare, face-painting, pumpkins and a gift shop with a variety of all-natural crafts to shop. Also, people are encouraged to bring canned food to benefit the local food pantry at Assembly of God Church in Baldwinsville.
“I think grandma and grandpa will love it. Mom and dad will love it. It’s made for kids, but it’s definitely a family thing,” said Eggert, who will be promoting the event at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12 on Bridge Street.
Chengerians is located at 84 Merrit Road in Fulton, just off County Route 8 (Plainville Road), two miles north of Lysander.
Be on the look out for more events at Chengerians, too. In October, Hauntrepreneurs, which Mellini said won the best hayride award last year from Scarycuse.com, will be back for its spooky 13th Hour Rising.
For more information, visit chengerians.com or call 678-2046.
Sponsors for “Where’s Olaf?” include Testone, Marshall and Discenza CPAS, Hiscock and Barcley LLP, Ameriprise Financial, Hofmann Sausage C. LLC , Sal’s Pizza, Bowan Auto Repair, INC, Royal Vanner Ranch, The Gem Diner and Koffee King.
