These days when we hear farming in the city, we likely think of some type of urban farm, a rooftop garden that someone calls a farm or the pots of basil and dill on your fire escape.
You weekend runaways know what a farm is as you pass them on your way out east all summer or up north as you run away to Hudson and towns of the sort. Some of you out of towners also may be able to recognize what a farm looks like.
What most of us likely do not think of when farming is New York City. While we basically have everything at our fingertips, it seems as if a farm is out of reach. Not. True!
There is a farm. You can take public transportation and be there within an hour from midtown. The borough is Queens and the farm is called Queens Farm. Very original name. We know.
The farm dates to 1697 and occupies New York City’s largest remaining tract of undisturbed farmland. The farm encompasses a 47-acre parcel that is the longest continuously farmed site in New York State. The site includes historic farm buildings, a greenhouse complex, livestock, farm vehicles and implements, planting fields, an orchard, and an herb garden. The farm animals and tranquil agrarian environment provide the opportunity to leave the hectic daily pace behind for an enjoyable visit to a farm without leaving the city.
Now, let’s talk about the County Fair in the city! The traditional county fair with blue ribbon competitions in livestock, produce, home crafts, arts & crafts, and more takes place in Queens! The fair features pie eating and corn husking contests, hayrides, pig races, carnival rides, midway games, and kids’ entertainment by jugglers and acrobats! Dance the day away at the Beer Garden with music by the Shannon Breeze Irish Band on Saturday and Spitzbuam German Band. Check out the ConEdison Ecology booth where you can adopt a worm for your home compost bin, get gardening & recycling tips, and enjoy free crafts for kids! Enjoy live music on the main stage with Savannah Sky Country Band followed by Something Special Big Band and check out medieval combat demos and the historic Adriance Farmhouse. Top your visit off with a trip to The Amazing Maize Maze, opening this weekend! Local food and craft vendors will be on the farm throughout the event.
The 36th Annual Queens County Fair takes place September 22nd and 23rd from 11:00 am–6:00 pm
It’s an event for adults and children. This is no urban farm and Queens is a county!
For more information and tickets, visit http://www.queensfarm.org/events.html