story by GLENDA WINDERS
Fair Oaks Farms always turns into a sparkling wonderland at holiday time, and this year they have upped their game by adding magical new features to help you celebrate the season as you explore the activities the farms have to offer.
Every building is adorned with festive décor, and colorful lights bathe the entire property in a warm glow. Tractors are strung with twinkling lights, and visitors are invited to stroll through decorated spaces and gather around cozy bonfires for have s’mores near the Red Barn Milk Bar.
New this year is the arrival of the holiday-themed pop-up Miracle® cocktail bar, which sets the standard for merriment with nostalgic décor, creative cocktails and infectious joviality. You’ll be surrounded by floor-to-ceiling decorations while you sip cocktails and mocktails and munch on the farms’ signature savories, such as grilled cheese sandwiches and quesadillas.
The Farmhouse Restaurant transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland. You’ll be able to gather in a dining room festooned with decorations or book an intimate evening in a private dining igloo under the stars. Whichever you choose, you’ll choose your meal from a full menu of gourmet cuisine.
Dinner is a whole different experience with steaks, pasta, seafood and some seasonal surprises. At Thanksgiving they will package up a chef-prepared traditional feast for you to take home. In December carolers will enhance your dining with music, and on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day they’ll offer celebratory menus to ring in 2026.
The Fair Oaks Farms Adventures have been transformed into a destination where every building glows with colorful décor. For the price of admission to the Dairy Adventure, for example, families can meet holiday characters and join in themed games.
This year marks the first-ever appearance of “Dairy Tales with Farmer Kringle,” a storytelling adventure featuring Santa’s farming brother. Guests will enjoy an early evening bus ride to the decorated robotic dairy to sip milk and eat cookies.
Then they can help Farmer Kringle deliver their wish lists directly to the North Pole. The storytelling component of this experience requires reservations. Everyone is welcome at this opportunity to create a new family tradition.
While you take in the eye-popping surroundings, Fair Oaks Farms is also an excellent place to get some holiday shopping done. The gift shop offers a wide selection of cheeses, chocolates, apparel and gift cards. Or surprise your favorite recipients with an entire year full of memorable experiences with a Cream of the Crop Adventure Membership that gives them access to the farms’ attractions. Purchase the membership between Nov. 20 and Dec. 31 and receive a $50 gift card to give or enjoy even after the holidays are over.
To make your stay here even more relaxing and memorable, book a room and plan to spend the night. The guest rooms have been designed to make it seem as if they are in a barn. To give your family a special treat, choose one of the family bunk silo suites, which are outfitted with bunk beds, bean-bag chairs and a big-screen TV.
While the farms might be a veritable fairyland at this time of year, the staff here never forgets their mission to reconnect their guests with nature, animals and sustainable agriculture. Most of the ways you can learn and explore during the rest of the year are still available. The difference is that you will be doing them all in enchanted surroundings — eating special meals, sipping signature drinks and making unforgettable memories with the people you love most.
For more information visit: fofarms.com
