Despite the fact that more than one million people call York Region home, the area remains an important agricultural centre. Farms of all sorts dot the region – with many of them developing programs that connect them directly with the end consumer.
While many farms across the region participate in the many farmers’ markets that are held weekly in the region’s more urbran areas, many farmers are opening up their properties to showcase ‘grown local’ and ‘shop local’ initiatives and solutions. Over the next few weeks, experienceyorkregion.com is going to introduce you to some of the folks who are taking ag-tourism to the next level.
By Shelly Khushal
Brooks Farms is your one-stop shop for everything fun.
From play lands to barnyard animals to the fully stocked market with meats and baked goods, this farm has it all. General Manager Craig Douglas spent some time chatting with me about the vision for the farm. Currently, they offer the following activities: tractor rides, bonfires, live music, farm animals, pirate ships, zip line,jJumping pillows, play structures and hay bales.
This farm caters not only to different age groups, but also different seasons, with their seasonal festivals. Some examples include: maple fest, asparagus festival, berry festival, apple orchards, pick your own pumpkins, sunflower festival, Brooks Fest at night with a Halloween concept and festival of lights, which includes a visit with Santa.
To keep up with the changing times, this farm is taking innovation to the next level by thinking of creative ways to engage the community. Soon, they will offer the following: gem mining, educational programming, cooking classes, banquet hall rental and corporate events bookings, magic shows, fire pits rentals where you can pre-order meals brought to your pit, and even micro weddings!
If that isn’t enough, their market offers both homemade and local products by local vendors in the York Region. From meats to sweets to syrups and jams, this market has something for everyone.
General Manager Craig Douglas says “the farm’s motto is ‘happiness’, and our mission and goal is to offer a fun and positive atmosphere, leaving everyone with a smile”.
My daughter and I certainly did!
Brooks Farms is located at 122 Ashworth Rd, Mount Albert, ON L0G 1M0, (905) 473-3246.
Website: https://www.brooksfarms.com/
Instagram: @brooksfarms
Shelly Khushal is a busy mother of two and an active member of the York Region community, always keeping abreast of the social scene, latest trends and products; highlighting fun events in and around York Region.
Main photo: Fresh baked pies and cakes and other treats are available at Brooks Farms.
Photo row: Brooks Farms is constantly changing, hosting all the various seasonal events, including Earth Day, Easter, Maple Syrup Festival and, of course, Christmas.
