The 13th Annual Ambler Farm Day is this Sunday, Oct. 6 from noon-4 p.m.. This beloved event has become a Wilton tradition for locals and out-of-towners alike. If you’re new to town, or haven’t been to this iconic fall festival before–or haven’t taken part for a few years–you don’t want to miss out! Traditional activities (like the apple slingshot, pumpkin patch and children’s crafts) and new attractions (including the chance to look over the Raymond-Ambler Farmhouse up-close-and-in-person) are sure to entertain people of all ages.
Approximately 2,000 visitors are expected to arrive at Ambler Farm, located at 257 Hurlbutt Street, via shuttle bus, car, foot, and bicycle. The components of this event are many and varied, from pumpkins to people. The farm couldn’t stage this event without its 145 volunteers, both teens and adults. According to Ashley Kineon, co-chair of special events for Ambler Farm (along with Elizabeth Etzbach), “We couldn’t possibly pull off an event of this magnitude without our volunteers.” She added, “They are truly the one indispensable piece of the pie that makes this event so special to Wilton.”
As a special treat, the “Pumpkin Warrior” trebuchet will be back and better than ever for Ambler Farm Day 2013. Program manager Kevin Meehan and his team of “punkin chuckers” will demonstrate how far a pumpkin can be launched by what he terms, “a beast of a trebuchet.” Visitors will also enjoy hay rides, a hay maze and tumble ground (hence all that hay!); live music from Bob’s Your Uncle, baked goods, and more healthy food options. While nearly 1,100 hot dogs and bratwursts are traditionally eaten each year, the concessions team has added wraps, salads, and chicken dogs to the menu for those looking for lighter fare. In addition, Farmer Jonathan will be selling his organic, freshly-picked produce, while the Garden Market will offer beautiful flower arrangements and other goodies.
Ambler Farm Day is the single most important fundraising event each year for the farm, a not-for-profit organization. All proceeds go toward ongoing educational programs as well as the continued restoration of the Raymond-Ambler Farmhouse.
Before Ambler Farm Day 2013 is in the books, organizers are already looking for volunteers for 2014. Stop by the Friends of Ambler Farm table or the Volunteer tent on Sunday to find out more, or contact Elizabeth Etzbach or Cathy Ratcliffe for more information. You can visit www.amblerfarm.org for more on the farm and its programs, activities, and mission.
This event is sponsored by BankWell of Wilton, Events Party Rentals, Moments by Andrea Photography, Tall Trees Landscaping, and Teed & Brown.
Editor’s Note: Michele Bennett is on the board of directors of the Friends of Ambler Farm.