The wait is over! ON Farm Fest is back, and 9 amazing farms in Onondaga County are opening their barn doors to you and your family on September 18th, 2021 from 10am-3pm. We recommend you visit 3-4 different farms. So, how do you choose? Let this insider’s guide lead the way with 3 highlights from each farm. Pick the farms that appeal most to you. And we’ll see you…ON the Farm!
See Grass-Fed Beef Graze on a Beautiful 5th Generation Farm
5700 Townsend Rd. in Fayetteville, NY
Set amidst rolling hills in Fayetteville, this beef farm offers stunning views and a chance to learn how beef cattle is raised. The farm also manages crops such as hay, so you’ll learn about that, too! Kids will love the experience of petting a chicken or climbing aboard a tractor. The Gridley family runs a store right on the farm where you can purchase their beef, handmade woodwork, and mandala artwork.
- Explore the Grass-Fed Beef Process: Why is grass-fed beef so popular? Is it better? Get the full story on an interactive tour
- The Cadleys Make an Appearance: Enjoy live music with this special group (no wonder they have a huge following in CNY)
- Giddy Up on a Pony Ride: The Gridley family planned a special day with pony rides for the kids
Meet the Cows – and the Families – Who Produce Milk for Chobani Yogurt
1338 Vincent Corners Rd. in Fabius, NY
Did you know that 98% of dairy farms in America are family run? And that includes large dairies with thousands of cows…like Barbland Dairy! The local families that own this farm take amazing care of each calf and cow – as well as their team of employees. See for yourself what sustainable dairy farming is like on this exciting tour. Barbland Dairy has gone above and beyond creating a special day of interactive activities for all ages. Don’t miss it!
- Meet Cows Up Close: You’ll go behind the scenes in the dairy barn to meet calves and cows
- Hear From a Dairy Nutritionist: Yes, these cows have their own nutritionist! Learn how they stay healthy
- See Real Princesses: Dairy princesses will be on hand to lead activities and talk to you about dairy
Goats! Goats! And More Goats at Tyson Farms
3722 Bishop Hill Rd in Marcellus, NY
Who doesn’t love petting a friendly animal? Adults and kids are invited to pet goats at Tyson Farms, and then learn all about what it takes to care for these animals: their health routines, diet, exercise, and more. You’ll learn how goat’s milk is turned into natural, gentle soap and other products. While you’re at the farm, take a wagon ride into the fields behind the store and barn. Then shop the store for all-natural, handmade products like goat’s milk soap, body butters, lip balms, and more.
- Get Your Fill of Limp Lizard: Hungry? Limp Lizard will have BBQ food available for purchase
- Tune Into the Music: The popular Dirtroad Ruckus Duo will be playing live music on the farm.
- Watch Goat’s Milk Soap Demos: See how it’s made!
Go Behind the Scenes at Navarino Orchard
3655 Cherry Valley Turnpike (Route 20) in Syracuse, NY
You’ve gone apple picking, but this On Farm Fest tour takes you deeper into the heart of the orchard. Navarino Orchard is the only farm to have been on the ON Farm Fest tour for all 5 years – it’s a visitor favorite. Hop on the wagon for an interactive, educational tour. Learn how apples are grown from blossom, to branch, to your table…
- Go Apple Picking: It’s peak apple season! Stock up on fresh apples – pick your own or buy them pre-picked (for purchase).
- Treat Yourself: Fritters, fritter sundaes, apple cider floats, hot dogs, popcorn, and more await you (for purchase).
- Shop the Country Store: From pottery to handmade pies and bread, the on-site store is a great shopping destination.
Sweeten up to REAL Syrup at Whitetail Tree Farm
1949 Pompey Center Road in Fabius, NY
Don’t miss your chance to discover how maple syrup goes from tree, to tap, to table! The Skeval Family looks forward to taking you on a tour of their Christmas tree farm and maple syrup business. The farm is in a beautiful location, and you’ll enjoy a guided tour among the trees. In fact, there are over 15,000 trees at Whitetail Tree Farm! The gift shop will be open with everything from maple products to hand-crafted gifts (it’s never to early to start your holiday shopping).
- Live Music with Thrift Store Gypsies: Kick back and relax to the acoustic sounds of this local favorite.
- Get Sappy: Taste maple sap fresh from the tree!
- Catch the Action: There will be many demos including tree pruning, saw milling, wreath making and more!
At Tim’s Pumpkin Patch, See What it Takes to Manage 70 Acres of Pumpkins
2901 Rose Hill Rd. in Marietta, NY
Tim’s Pumpkin Patch is one of the most popular patches in all of Central New York – and beyond. Meet the family behind this thriving business: the Leubners! They also run a dairy farm nearby, and they’ll share insights into the dairy industry as well. Important Note: Stop at the Onondaga Grown welcome table (look for the red tablecloth), and get a sticker. This sticker will give you unlimited access to the activities at Tim’s including the corn maze, petting zoo, and more.
- Take a Wagon Ride: Learn more about the farm on a tractor-led wagon ride.
- Rock Out to the Mix Tapes: This fun and lively band will be playing during the event.
- Indulge Your Craving: Pumpkin fritters, fresh donuts, homemade cookies…it’s all available for purchase.
Texas Longhorns in New York? Yes! At Albanese Longhorns in Jamesville
6818 U.S. Route 20 in LaFayette, NY
Step onto an authentic Western ranch…right here in Onondaga County. The Albanese Family looks forward to taking you on a tour of their picturesque property featuring real Texas Longhorns, horses, goats, and other animals. Learn all about the Texas Longhorn breed and what it takes to breed, raise, and show these special animals.
- Shop for Beef and More: …in the on-site store that immediately makes you feel like you’re in Texas!
- Soak in the Sounds: …of The Owens Brothers as they play rock, folk, and country favorites.
- Take Plenty of Pics: The longhorns will be out and ready for photos!
Brady Farm: A Thriving Urban Farm in the Heart of Syracuse
150 Ford Avenue in Syracuse, NY
Brady Farm and its team of farmers grow a wide variety of produce, including vegetables and fruit common in other parts of the world…but new to you! Learn about sustainable farming practices and how this farm harvests the bounty – and prepares it for sale. Hear about how the farm grows everything from shiitake mushrooms to squash!
- Score Organic Eats: Tour the farm, then purchase some veggies to take home.
- Dance to the Beat: The official DJ of Syracuse University, DJ Maestro, is performing.
- Enjoy Lunch with Stone Soup: Local food vendor Stone Soup will be offering seasonal treats and eats for purchase.
Get Your Fall Fix at Emmi Farms
1482 West Genesee Road in Baldwinsville, NY
Did you know Emmi Farms grows produce on over 300 acres? This third-generation farm is run by the Emmi family. They can’t wait to take you on a tour of their operation: from the fields to the packing house, where fresh produce is prepared for your table.
- Shop the Store: From bright orange pumpkins to just-picked apples, peppers to pickles, it’s all available in this popular store.
- Hear Greg Hoover Perform: Greg Hoover has performed at many previous ON Farm Fest events…the crowd loves his music!
- See Tractors and Farm Equipment: …up close! Perfect for pictures and letting kids climb aboard real farm equipment.
