Everybody’s favorite season brings fun to all corners of our region. From family-friendly adventure to a true taste of autumn, here are a few ways to make the most of the coming sweater weather.
Adventure on the Farm
Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove began with a humble corn maze in 2001; its centerpiece is now a 28-acre maze with nearly 10 miles of intricate trails. Now billed as the largest of its kind in the world, the maze is just one of many experiences you’ll find on the farm.
“We spend a lot of time designing, planting and cleaning up all of the trails to get this spectacular-looking corn maze,” says co-owner George Richardson. “I credit my brother, Robert, with the size. He said, ‘If we’re going to do a corn maze, let’s do the largest.’”
The farm is now a full-scale autumn destination that draws thousands each weekend from September to October. Among the many activities you’ll find on site, this year’s corn maze honors John Deere with tractor designs and a portrait of the legend himself.
Towering over the grounds is a 50-foot observation tower, built in 2009, with views of the countryside and the maze. For thrill-seekers, a state-certified zipline whizzes overhead.
Activities like a train and wagon rides provide a convenient way to experience the pumpkin patch. Pig races, a popular event every fall, feature custom blankets and musical introductions for each pig. Creative names for the porcine contestants include Snoop Pig and Taylor Swift-Foot.
“We’ve been to several pig races at state fairs and other events, and I think we do some of the best around,” says Richardson. “We make a big deal out of it.”
The Pig Race Amphitheater doubles on weekends as a live music venue, drawing crowds eager for entertainment and a local brew. The farm also offers draft beer from 9th Hour Brewing Co., in Lake Villa, a venture started by Richardson’s son-in-law, Jim. They make a perfect pairing for the food trucks that show up every weekend and include names like Your Sister’s Tomato (a portable pizzeria), El Chido (tacos galore) and Fork and Fry (plenty of poutine).
Take your meal and enjoy a private picnic or campfire site, or else snag a picnic table nearby.
Plans are underway for a brand-new, partially enclosed beer garden with a glass wall that overlooks the farm’s train station, carousel and jumping pads.
“It’s going to be phenomenal for people who want to sit, have a beer and bring in their food truck food,” says Richardson. “We’re just getting that started, so it’s going to be a great addition next fall.”
Richardson Adventure Farm has activities that appeal to people of all ages, with special games for little ones, adventurous thrills for the older ones and plenty of other amusements for the young-at-heart. It all adds up to something unique from other farms.
“By the time a child is 10 years old, they’re wanting something bigger and better, and that’s what we offer,” says Richardson. “It’s just a fun atmosphere to be in, and we love it.”
Richardson Adventure Farm is open Sept. 7-Oct. 27, Thursday 3-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-11 p.m., and Sunday noon-9 p.m.
Apple-y Ever After
Downtown Crystal Lake welcomes autumn with an annual festival that’s centered around an American legend. The 31st Johnny Appleseed Festival, on Sept. 28, coincides with the 250th birthday of John Chapman, the beloved folk hero known for wandering the U.S. and planting apple trees.
“This festival is our longest-standing and most foundational event,” says Joy Neal, executive director of Downtown Crystal Lake, a nonprofit organization that supports local businesses. “It’s grown over the years, but we continue to carry on the traditions that make it unique.”
Family activities abound, with a petting zoo and kids’ games in the heart of downtown. A new area dedicated to teenagers features activities like inflatable axe and dart throwing, a dunk tank with local celebrities, karaoke and basketball hoops. Wander through downtown and you just might see an actor playing Johnny Appleseed – a favorite with children – or catch a photo op with a scarecrow stilt walker.
The festival culminates with the Great Ball Race, where hundreds of brightly colored balls roll down Brink Street and one lucky winner takes home a $1,000 prize. The festival also marks the closing day of this year’s farmers market, which runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Depot Park.
Food options include local favorites like Georgio’s Chicago Pizzeria & Pub and apple cider doughnuts from Country Donuts. The city’s cake makers converge for a Johnny Appleseed birthday cake contest, and of course cupcakes are also available for purchase.
Live acts like The Corner Boys Band and dance performances add to the lively atmosphere, but Neal says the best part is exploring the shops around downtown.
“It’s the feeling of community and the moments that mark the changing of the seasons that make this festival special,” she adds. “It’s the coming together of not only the Crystal Lake community but the surrounding area as well.”
Apples, Corn and Pumpkins!
For those who long to wander through cornfields, pick crisp apples and find large pumpkins this fall, here are a few places to get your fix:
• All Seasons Orchard, Woodstock
• Kuipers Family Farm, Maple Park
• Goebbert’s Farm, South Barrington & Pingree Grove
• Royal Oak Farms, Harvard
• Stade’s Farm & Market, McHenry
• SunBerry Orchard Market, Lake Zurich
• Wiltse’s Farm, Maple Park
• Windy Acres Farm, Geneva