There are farm fresh harvest and farm animal related events during the summer:
Thompson's Farm is a family owned farm open for u-pick fruit during the season. walk through the orchards and pick you own farm fresh fruit off the trees. It doesn't get any better than this.
Bill's Berry Farm in Grandview, WA features a number of free activities which are always available such as children's play area, country tire swing, and a petting zoo. On festival days there is a barnyard train, Pumpkin Chunkin (fall), and squeeze your own cider activities (fall). These festivals are; The Cherry Festival June 25, Blueberry Daze Festival July 2, Antiques on the Farm July 1-2, Apple and Pumpkin Festival and corn Maze Saturdays September 17-October 22.
Washington Fruit Place and Gift Shop in Yakima, WA, cherries will be ready to pick: June 28 - July 10. On Saturday July 2 celebrate at the Cherry Festival with a tree cutting by George and Martha Washington, pit-spitting contests, walking tour, cherry tasting, hay rides, U-pick and chocolate-dipped cherries. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dates when other fruit is expected to be available. Peaches ripe: Aug. 15 - Sept. 2, White Peaches ripe : Aug. 15, Nectarines ripe: Sept. 5 - 15, Fuji Apples ripe: Oct. 16 - 25
At the Silbury Hill Alpaca Farm pet an alpaca, learn about animal care and agriculture. Bring a picnic an soak in the farm atmosphere; Grand Opening Weekend is June 25-26. Celebrate The peach harvest by picking your own peaches on August 27-28 and September 3-4. National Alpaca Days, September 24-25. Come and see the quality alpaca products available.
Selah Ridge Lavender Farm in Selah, WA - Join them in the Lavender Harvest Days the second weekend in July as you and your children gather your own u-cut lavender, listen to live music and check out the artisan craft vendors, and lavender products.
Bella Terra Gardens in Zillah WA. Bring the kids to see the goats, Babydoll sheep and chickens. Pick strawberries, black berries, raspberries and blueberries in season. Visit the Heritage barn filled with the wares of local craftspeople and artists. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the fresh country air and fun on the farm.
While you are in the valley, visit the Central Washington Agriculture Museum, the largest in the state, where you can discover how early settlers lived and worked the land to produce their food and grow their crops for an living.
The Yakima Valley blog articles feature members of the Yakima Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. If you would like to receive information regarding membership, Click here, or to request a membership application, please contact Michele Hopkins at (509) 575-3010.
