With no school, no homework and no looming assignments, summer can feel like a months-long-festival for children. Adding to the already celebratory nature of the season, here are five farm-centric activities and festivals that are taking place this summer in Frederick County. Enjoy a bit of nature with your little ones—yet another reason to celebrate the summer!
SilvoPasture Walk & Discussion | Grazy Days Family Farm 12102 Coppermine Road, Union Bridge, MD 21791
Our ancestors lauded the power of nature, and that power can still be seen at work today. In addition to being picture-perfect, nature also provides for experiments in sustainability such as Silvopasture—a U.S. Department of Agriculture project to integrate trees and grazing livestock on the same land to maximize plant growth and harvest. Join the SilvoPasture Walk & Discussion at the Grazy Days Family Farm from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. June 17 to witness the new planting of honey locusts and chestnuts and discuss SilvoPasture, tree crops and other nature-related funding opportunities. For more information, contact Grazy Days Family Farm at 301-660-3993.
Frederick County Master Gardener Earth Fest | University of Maryland Extension Service, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick, MD 21702
Organized by the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources at the University of Maryland, the Frederick County Master Gardener Earth Fest invites participants of all ages to participate in a variety of nature-centric activities that include designing a successful pollinator garden, witnessing innovative gardening practices and making bee and butterfly paths. With customized activities for young kids such as crafts and a scavenger hunt, the Master Gardener Earth Fest offers an opportunity to learn about nature alongside little ones. Festival hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 22. For more information, visit agnr.umd.edu.
Myersville Farmers Market | Town of Myersville, 301 Main St. Myersville, MD 21773
In addition to visiting the beach, swimming pool and ice cream parlor, perusing local farmers’ markets is a staple of the summer season. Along with local produce, bath and body products, baked goods and fresh mushrooms, the Myersville Farmers Market also gives families the opportunity to engage in community spirit and cheer because, after all, what is better than shopping together? The market runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, now through Oct. 26. Find more information on visitfrederick.org.
Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market | 21 Frederick Road, Thurmont, MD 21788
Known as the second largest farmers’ market in Frederick County, Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market, held every Saturday at Thurmont Community Park, offers a selection of homemade produce, locally raised beef, homemade sauces, hand-sewn items, homemade soap and more. The market runs from 9 a.m. to noon, now through Sept. 28. Find more information on thurmont.com.
