We can’t wait…can you? ON Farm Fest is coming up fast on September 17th, 2022 from 10am to 3pm. It’s the 6th annual event, and 7 Syracuse area farms will be opening their barn doors for free tours and fun on the farm. We always suggest that you aim to visit 3-4 different farms. This guide will help you narrow down the farms to visit with highlights at each destination. We look forward to seeing you…ON the farm!
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 in Fabius take great care of each calf and cow – as well as their team of employees. See for yourself what state-of-the-art, sustainable dairy farming is like on an exciting wagon tour. Just like last year, 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
- Learn About Cow Care: Talk to a large animal veterinarian from Midstate Veterinary Service, watch a hoof trimming demo, meet dairy ambassadors from Onondaga County Dairy Promotions, and more!
- Enjoy Dairy Good Snacks: Chobani will be on site with free yogurt and other offerings, or purchase a grilled cheese sandwich
Go Where the Flowers Grow…
4693 Kasson Road in Syracuse
What does it take to operate a business that grows and sells over 60,000 plants? Find out when you tour Crazy Daisies. A decade ago, Crazy Daisies was a single greenhouse. Today, you’ll find multiple greenhouses, the bustling Garden Cafe, a newly planted sunflower patch and raspberry bushes, and much more. Join in the educational garden walk or learn more about houseplants. Hungry? Enjoy a meal or cocktail in the Garden Cafe – or pick up a Hoffman hot dog and salt potatoes in a special tent on site (for purchase).
- Hop on the Hayride: Go into the heart of a pumpkin patch!
- Learn How to Use Botanicals in Your Kitchen: Join in an educational demo.
- Mums the Word: After your tour, stock up on mums for fall (for purchase).
- Live Music from Bitter Creek Band: This popular band will be performing on site.
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 6 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.
Meet Rescue Horses and Learn All About Equine Care
3721 Verplank Road in Clay
Welcome to Sunshine Horses! This non-profit organization is a horse adoption and rescue facility dedicated to rehabilitating, retraining, and rehoming horses. At ON Farm Fest, Sunshine Horses has set up 7 “stations” that you can visit to learn about everything from the rescue process to how the horses get their needs met: from food and vet care…to “horsing” around through enrichment activities.
- Talk to Volunteers: Sunshine relies 100% on volunteers and donations, learn all that’s involved in running the facility.
- Meet the Horses: The horses will be out and about for you to photograph. Hear their stories and discover how resilient they are.
- Grab Lunch from PBJ Lunchbox Food Truck: One of Syracuse’s most popular food trucks will be on site with delicious food for purchase! Check out the menu, here.
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. Grab lunch for purchase from Busted Yolk!
- 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 delicious fall veggies.
- Plant Your Own Herb Garden: While supplies last, you’ll pot your own mini herb garden to take home (for free).
- Tour the Farm: Brady Farm has been on the ON Farm Fest tour for many years – and the walking tour always scores high marks!
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. This year, Emmi Farms has taken things up a notch by creating a Local Vendor Market featuring a 16 local businesses! From Syracuse Salt Co. to Ashley Lynn Winery, you can shop and savor a taste of fall.
- Shop the Store: From bright orange pumpkins to just-picked apples, peppers to pickles, it’s all available in this popular farm store.
- Hear Greg Hoover Perform: Greg Hoover has performed at many previous ON Farm Fest events…everyone enjoys his acoustic sounds.
- See Tractors and Farm Equipment: …up close! Perfect for pictures and letting kids climb aboard real farm equipment.
- Visit the Food Truck! Blueberries & Lace: This beautiful food truck will be selling sweet treats and coffee!
