Local farms open their doors to the public

By Lauren O’Brien

As the sun falls, parents turn the heat up on the thermostat and tuck their children under thick blankets. They sleep soundly, with bellies full of pumpkin pie and apple cider. Come morning, when the frost melts, people bundle themselves up and head outside to enjoy the red and orange landscape.

Welcome to autumn and winter. The seasons of apple picking, pumpkin carving and ice skating. A majority of traditional activities take place on farms. Thanks to hospitable farmers who open their property to the public, anyone can enjoy these fun activities.

For some, seasonal activities like wagon rides and apple picking are an excuse to get out of the house. For others, it’s a meaningful family tradition that Greg Rocheleau, the co-owner of Pepe’s Pumpkin Patch, enjoys supporting.  

“People tend to come when their children are young and come back every year. It becomes a family tradition to come here and that makes everything worth it,” said Rocheleau.

Being part of a family’s tradition is equally as important to Krissy Thiessen of Thiessen Orchards. The orchard has been open to the public since it first opened in 1976. Over the years, it has grown to include a flower shop, a haunted barn and apple picking.  

On the average autumn day, Thiessen Orchards has dozens of visitors. From children braving the haunted attractions to couples meandering through the apple orchard.

“We’ve added some family friendly activities to get old-fashioned fun out to kids. To get them off their iPads and onto a tractor wagon and have some fun traditions with their family,” said Thiessen.

However, every good thing has its flaws. For the past two years, Thiessen Orchards has closed their haunted barn at night. In the past, they suffered from damage and having props stolen.

“Letting all of these people onto your property, there are always going to be complaints and liability. You have to make sure you keep everyone safe,” Thiessen said.

Lesley Labbe, the owner of Our Farm Organics, has not had a similar experience. The 60 acre farm outside of Cottam, Ont has opened their property to the public on a regular basis since opening 12 years ago. They offer tours and allow schools from elementary to university to explore the wooded area for educational purposes.

“The only thing that really annoys me is water bottles and Tim Hortons cups,” said Labbe. “People will come for a tour and they will be drinking their timmies and leaving the cup anywhere. People think it’s okay to leave trash around the farm. Which is odd, I wouldn’t go to someone’s backyard and throw my garbage around.”