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From noon to 4 p.m., children and adults can enjoy a variety of activities, like scarecrow making, hay rides, a pumpkin patch, an apple slingshot, pumpkin decorating, potato sack racing, games, crafts and more.
“It’s a really fun, wholesome, iconic New England event,” said Michele Bennett, a member of the Friends of Ambler Farm board of directors.
One of this year’s festival highlights will be the return of the “Pumpkin Warrior,” a trebuchet built by Ambler Farm Program Manager Kevin Meehan and Pumpkin Warrior crew— a team of students from eighth- through 11th- grade.
The contraption, also known as the “punkin chucker,” launches pumpkins hundreds of feet into the air, Bennett said. A prototype of the device had been featured at past year’s festivals, but the one being unveiled Sunday, she said, is bigger and better than ever.
“This is the one Kevin and his team are taking to the World Championship in Delaware,” Bennett said, referring to the World Championship Punkin Chunkin event happening from Nov. 1-3. “It’s really fun to see it in action.”
Also this year, visitors will be able to go up to the historic Raymond-Ambler Farmhouse, which is undergoing restorations. Although no one will be allowed inside the home, people are welcome to sit on the porch and watch a video about the restoration process.
Festival-goers will also be able to meet the farm’s resident animals, purchase delicious pies and other baked goods, make their way through a hay maze and dance to the music of Bob’s Your Uncle, a local favorite.
Of course, there will be plenty of food. Bratwurst, hot dogs, chicken dogs and healthier items, like wraps and salads, will be available at the concession stand.
At the farm stand, visitors can stock up on organic, freshly harvested produce like arugula, beets, eggplant, garlic, kale, leeks, onions, peppers, potatoes, radishes, salad turnips, Swiss chard, and butternut squash, Bennett said. Organic maple syrup made using the sap from the farm’s maple trees will also be available for purchase.
Ambler Farm Day is the biggest fundraiser for the nonprofit farm and draws families from Wilton and surrounding towns. About 2,000 people are expected at the farm for the event, said Bennett.
The cost is $20 per family and $10 for seniors. Proceeds will benefit the restoration of the Raymond-Ambler Farmhouse as well as ongoing educational programs at the farm, Bennett said.
Ambler Farm is at 257 Hurlbutt St. Free parking will be available at the Cannondale train station, with a free shuttle providing rides to the farm.
This year’s festivities are being sponsored by BankWell of Wilton, Events Party Rentals, Moments by Andrea Photography, Tall Trees Landscaping, and Teed & Brown.
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