On July 30 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County invites people to take a behind-the-scenes look at local farms during its 8th annual Open Farm Day.
This year, 38 farms will open their gates to the public free of charge. Visitors will be treated to farm tours, rides, product samples, farm animals and an all-around good time provided by Madison County’s agricultural community.
Planning on attending Open Farm Day this year? Whether you are a first time participant or returning visitor keep these few tips in mind to get the most out of your Open Farm Day experience:
1. Check out the farms: The most up-to-date farm profiles are available by visiting openfarmdaymadisoncounty.com. Read each farm’s profile to get a snapshot of what each stop has to offer.
2. Pick a lunch location: There are multiple farms offering lunch options this year throughout the county.
3. Plan your route: Don’t miss out on some of the special scheduled activities that will be running at different farms throughout the day. You never know what you are going to see at Open Farm Day. Our Farm will have Boris the giant catapult, launching watermelons every hour on the hour, starting at 11 a.m. Interested in learning more about how a grass-based dairy operates? Stop by Red Gate for one of their scheduled pasture walks.
4. Bring a friend: Open Farm Day is a great day for all. Adults and children of all ages will find activities perfect for them.
5. Pack a cooler: Last, but definitely not least, do not forget to pack your cooler. There will be many farms with products for sale.
Open Farm Day Passports are available at 10 Price Chopper locations in CNY, in local Madison County newspapers, and local farmers’ markets.
For more information on Open Farm Day participants or to download a passport instantly visit OpenFarmDayMadisonCounty.com – or follow Open Farm Day on Facebook to keep up-to-date on the latest Open Farm Day news.
Be sure to make it to as many farms as you can – visit three or more farms with your passport and you will receive a free Open Farm Day giveaway.