Fall Farm Activities Taking Place Throughout Maryland; Corn Mazes, Pumpkin Patches and Hayrides Offer Fun for the Whole Family  

Mike and Adrianne Dunn of Montpelier Farms

UPPER MARLBORO, MD – To kick off Maryland’s fall agri-tourism season, Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance today visited Montpelier Farms in Prince George’s to experience first- hand the state’s rich selection of agricultural recreational opportunities. During his visit, Secretary Hance joined 380 elementary school children to participate in Maryland agri-tourism activities (corn maze, hay ride, petting farm, and pumpkin picking).

Maryland’s farmers offer a variety of fall activities as a low-cost way for families to spend time together outdoors. October is the perfect time to experience the fun of selecting your own pumpkins for jack-o-lanterns, getting lost in a corn maze, taking a hayride, or attending a fall festival. Depending on the farm, visitors may be able to enjoy a variety of other activities including farm stands, scarecrow-making, petting farms, pony rides, live music, decorations, fresh apple cider, home baked goods and more.

“The fall is a wonderful time for families and friends to get outside and onto a farm,” said Secretary Hance. “Agritourism is a booming industry here in Maryland. Visiting a farm is great fun for all ages and supports our family farmers too. On-farm tourism operations look great and are ready for visitors with their fresh products and lively activities.”

According to the most recent agricultural census completed in 2012 by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, there are 33,161 agri-tourism farms nationally with revenues totaling $704 million. In Maryland, there are 307 agri-tourism farms with revenues of $7.2 million.

Montpelier Farms, located in Prince George’s County, is a working farm that offers a variety of agri-tourism activities May through December. Mike and Adrianne Dunn opened Montpelier Farms in 2008 with a corn maze, pumpkin patch and hayrides. Each year, additions, renovations and updates have been made to keep up with the growing crowds. This fall festival season offers fun on the farm for the whole family including corn mazes, hayrides, pumpkin patch, giant hill slide, farm market, bonfires and more.

For a list of farms offering fall activities, visit http://marylandsbest.net/. 

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