As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to transform, Crooked Pines Farm invites you to their annual Autumn Festival – a celebration of heirloom apples, seasonal décor, and the warm harvest ambiance that makes this a must-visit event for families across the region.
Heirloom Apples
Tucked away in the gently rolling hills of our countryside, the orchards at Crooked Pines boast a remarkable diversity of heirloom apple varieties. These heritage fruits are prized for their complex flavors, unique shapes, and vibrant colors – a far cry from the uniform, mass-produced apples found in most grocery stores.
Apple Varieties: From the bright red-orange ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ to the russeted ‘Ashmead’s Kernel’, our orchards feature over two dozen heirloom cultivars, each with their own distinct taste and appearance. Visitors can sample the tart yet sweet ‘Northern Spy’, the spicy-sweet ‘Esopus Spitzenburg’, and the crisp, juicy ‘Baldwin’ as they stroll through the trees. Many of these varieties date back centuries, having been carefully preserved by generations of orchardists.
Apple Cultivation: Our family has tended these heirloom trees for over 50 years, using time-honored organic practices to nurture their delicate nature. From hand-pruning in the spring to strategically applying mulch around the roots, we take a thoughtful, sustainable approach to ensure these treasured apples thrive. Bees pollinate the blossoms, while beneficial companion plantings deter pests without harsh chemicals.
Apple Tasting: At the festival, you can savor the flavors of our heirloom crop through freshly pressed cider, warm apple pies, and crisp autumn salads. Our experienced orchardists will be on hand to guide you through tastings, share recipes, and offer tips on selecting and storing these unique apples. You’ll be amazed by the diversity of colors, textures, and tastes that emerge from just one local, artisanal harvest.
Autumn Ambiance
As you stroll through Crooked Pines, you’ll be enveloped in the warm, rustic charm of the season. Vibrant seasonal decorations adorn our historic barns, fences, and outbuildings – from vibrant garlands of dried flowers to intricate wreaths woven with the farm’s own bittersweet vines. The scent of mulled cider and roasted pumpkin seeds fills the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil.
Harvest Festivities: Throughout the day, you can immerse yourself in the joyful rhythms of the autumn harvest. Watch skilled craftspeople demonstrate traditional skills like candle-making and wool-spinning. Tap your toes to the toe-tapping melodies of local bluegrass and folk musicians. And of course, don’t miss the pie-eating contest – where children and adults alike vie for the coveted title of ‘Pumpkin Pie Champ’.
Farm Atmosphere: As you explore our scenic walking trails or simply soak in the sights and sounds, you’ll be struck by the tranquil, bucolic atmosphere that permeates every corner of Crooked Pines. Amble past the grazing sheep, admire the brilliant foliage, and breathe in the crisp, rejuvenating air. This is a place to slow down, connect with nature, and appreciate the simple joys of the autumn season.
Crooked Pines Farm
Our family-owned farm has been a beloved fixture in the community for over a century. What began as a modest orchard and vegetable patch has blossomed into a vibrant agritourism destination, where visitors can reconnect with the roots of their food and immerse themselves in the rhythms of rural life.
Farm History: In 1912, my great-grandparents, John and Sarah Crooked, purchased the original 25 acres that would become Crooked Pines. Over the decades, the farm gradually expanded as new generations took the reins, carrying on the family’s commitment to sustainable, organic cultivation practices. Today, we steward over 150 acres of orchards, pastures, and woodlands – a testament to the enduring legacy of Crooked Pines.
Farm Products: While our heirloom apples are undoubtedly the star of the show, we also take great pride in our diverse selection of other farm-fresh products. Browse our bustling farm store for jars of small-batch jams and preserves, fragrant bouquets of cut flowers, and an array of seasonal vegetables nurtured with care in our raised beds. And be sure to stock up on all-natural body care items crafted from the milk of our heritage breed of dairy goats.
Farm Events: Beyond the Autumn Festival, Crooked Pines plays host to a variety of community events throughout the year. In the spring, families flock to our Easter Egg Hunt, where children can search for colorful eggs hidden amidst the budding blossoms. Summer brings our Solstice Celebration, featuring live music, farm-to-table cuisine, and good old-fashioned lawn games. And in December, our Christmas Market overflows with unique handmade gifts, festive treats, and sing-alongs around the bonfire.
Autumn Festival
At the heart of our autumn celebrations is the Crooked Pines Autumn Festival – a beloved annual tradition that draws visitors from near and far. This year’s event promises a day filled with hands-on activities, local artisan vendors, and the myriad sights, sounds, and flavors that capture the essence of the season.
Festival Activities: From guided nature trails through the vibrant foliage to interactive educational stations that teach kids about pollinator gardens and apple life cycles, there’s something for everyone at the festival. Unleash your creativity at our pumpkin painting and scarecrow-building workshops. Or challenge your family to a round of old-fashioned sack races and three-legged contests on the sprawling festival grounds.
Festival Vendors: Stroll through our bustling artisan marketplace to discover one-of-a-kind crafts, artwork, and specialty foods from talented local producers. Browse the selection of hand-knit sweaters, hand-carved wooden bowls, and gourmet jams infused with our farm-fresh fruits and herbs. And be sure to sample the offerings from our guest food trucks, which will be serving up mouthwatering farm-to-table creations.
Festival Experiences: Of course, the true highlight of the Crooked Pines Autumn Festival is the chance to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season. Sip on a steaming mug of apple cider as you wander through the u-pick orchard, selecting the perfect heirloom varieties to take home. Cozy up by the crackling bonfire, toasting marshmallows and swapping stories with fellow visitors. And don’t miss the chance to capture the quintessential autumn photo op – whether it’s posing with our friendly farm animals or nestled in a bed of golden fallen leaves.
We hope you’ll join us at Crooked Pines Farm this autumn for a day filled with family fun, farm-fresh delights, and the warm, rustic ambiance that makes this season so special. See you soon!
