Local family farm opens its gates for Frontenac Heritage Festival

Julie Druker | Feb 03, 2016

Those curious about local family-run farms will be pleased to know that they are invited to explore the 200-acre, three generations old Tryon Family Farm located on Wagarville Road near Parham. This is a new event at this year's 10th annual Frontenac Heritage Festival and the owners, Owen and Cari Tryon, along with their four children, will be generously opening their farm gate to guests to come and see what takes place at their farm, which has been in operation for close to 75 years.

The couple, who farm the property along with the help of Owen's father Boyd, will be showing off their sheep, goats, pigs, horses and cows to those interested in visiting the paddocks and the barns where the animals are front and center.

Guests will have a chance to feed, pet and observe the animals, and who can resist the sight of the newest farm animals, which appeared on the scene just a few weeks ago? These include a squealing brood of young piglets and a number of very feisty kid goats. There are also donkeys, rabbits, ducks and the three family dogs, who will also be in attendance.

Visitors will also have a chance to learn about the various types of farming equipment used to help keep this family-run operation in good working order.

The Hinchinbrooke Recreation Committee will be setting up a number of outdoor activities at the farm, which the whole family can enjoy. Guests will also be invited to sip a cup of hot cider and warm up by a bonfire. Visitors are asked to park their cars at the Wagarville Road fire hall, where a free shuttle service will be offering guests lifts to and from the farm every 20 minutes.

The fun takes place on Sunday, February 14 from 1p.m. - 4 p.m. Boots are a must since the weather has been spring-like, and make sure to dress for outdoor weather.

Also, don't forget the many other favourite activities on offer as part of this year's festival, which include historical re-enactments; free open mic events; a craft show and artisan demonstrations; and an Empty Bowls fundraiser event in Arden. As well, a number of special festival meals will be available at various local restaurants, community halls, and the local Legions. There will be a Valentine's Day dance, plus a number of outdoor activities like snowshoeing, a walk/run event, and also new this year, a leisurely snowmobile ride along the historic K&P Trail.

The festival opens on Friday, February 12 with a special ceremony at the Granite Ridge Education Centre in Sharbot Lake at 6:30 pm, which will be followed by the ever popular Variety Show at 7pm. The show will feature a star-studded line up of well-known musicians, singers and entertainers of all ages from in and around the community. For a full listing of all of the the events including dates, times and locations, consult the blue Frontenac Heritage Festival brochure that is inserted in this week's paper.