Stonycreek Farm celebrates 40th Pumpkin Harvest Festival

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IMAGE bill hand waters pumpkin plants in greenhouse

Bill hand waters pumpkin plants in the greenhouse

What began as a small pumpkin patch in 1972 has grown into a full-service nursery and landscaping business. Harvest season is now celebrated each year on the 1860’s Stonycreek Farm, 11366 Ind. 38 East, Noblesville. This year marks the 40th Annual Stonycreek Farm Pumpkin Harvest Festival which runs now to Oct. 31.

“We now have third generation families picking their own pumpkins. We take great pride in seeing children find their first pumpkin in our fields,” says Loren Schmierer, owner of Stonycreek Farm.

The 40th anniversary marks a first in Stonycreek history. Because of this summer’s drought, Stonycreek Farm has germinated pumpkins in greenhouses in preparation for the annual event. The seedlings were then planted in the field and maintained with a water truck. Thanks to a proactive germination program, the farm hopes to yield 50,000 pumpkins despite extreme drought conditions.

Pumpkins aren’t the only attraction at the festival.

Once again, the zip line is expected to be a crowd pleaser. The cost is $15 per person for anyone age 10 and up who weighs between 90 pounds and 250 pounds. In honor of the anniversary, those turning 40 years old during the month of September or October get a free zip line ride (with valid ID). The zip line sails across the Christmas tree field, over a pond and gives riders a spectacular view of the hayride wagons heading out to the field. The ride is approximately 400 feet long and is 40 feet high in some places.

The festival includes entertainment for “kids” ages 8-80. Have you ever wondered what a grain grinder looks like? A new educational program will feature antique farm equipment where visitors can learn about the use of various vintage farm equipment. Other highlights include hayrides to the pumpkin patch, a haunted house, the gourd sling shot, corn cob cannon, Kiddiepillar (inflatable), candle making, farm animals and more. Kids can take pony rides and talk with a blacksmith, as well as jump in a giant straw mound and play at the playground. Most activities have a nominal fee.

If you get hungry or thirsty, the Country Market is open daily. Smoked ribs, turkey legs, pulled pork and Kettle Corn are sold on the weekends. Mums and fall decorations are available for sale in the greenhouse.

During the peak weekends of the Pumpkin Harvest Festival, organizers said more than 2,000 people a day attend. The festival is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private party sites are available during the evening from 6 to 11 p.m. Parking is $5 per car on Saturday and Sunday and there is no fee Monday to Friday.

For more event updates and information, visit www.stonycreekfarm.net.


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