A-MAZE-ing MacMillan Farms

There’s something about the end of October which puts kids’ sense of adventure into high gear. Maybe it’s the anticipation of Halloween – yes, this is very likely the source! Regardless of the catalyst, parents might find it a challenge to think up new and exciting adventures for kids… enter MacMillan Farms in Kelowna as well as a number of fun autumn fairs and events that are sure to hit the adventurous mark!

(Photo: Courtesy of MacMillan Farms in Kelowna)

Let’s start with the many fun activities at MacMillan Farms. Located just off Spiers Rd in East Kelowna, this 110-acre family farm should be a regular Fall stop for kids of all ages. Regularly scheduled hay rides take place daily (3 pm to 6 pm on weekdays, and every half-hour on weekends), giving families a peak of some gorgeous farm scenery, farm animals, and often an array of wildlife.

One of my favourite things about MacMillan Farms is their 12-foot corn maze. It is really quite astounding and extensive! Check out this video shot for Tourism Kelowna by Gary Moore which shows the corn maze and MacMillan Farms in detail. For smaller kids, there is also a hay maze, allowing parents to maintain an eye on their little adventurers throughout their time in the maze.

An impressive pumpkin patch is also on the property – so this is where you might find that perfect Halloween pumpkin for that Jackolantern… And for families who get snacky, MacMillan Farms has a concession stand where you can get hot chocolate and various snacks to hit the spot. Admission to the farm is free, and small admission fees apply to the activities. It’s $3 per person to get into the corn maze or hay ride; $10 per family of 5; or a Family Fun Pack is available at $20 for a family of 5 to play in the corn maze, take a hay ride, and try their hand at the pumpkin sling shot. MacMillan Farms is open to the public until October 31.

Also in October, the 23rd annual Apple Fair will take place at the Laurel Packinghouse on October 22 from 10 am to 6 pm. There will be live entertainment and activities like the “Apple Tasting Booth”, featuring a variety of locally-grown apples for sampling. Also in celebration of harvest (for apples), the Fair will be serving homemade apple pie and a scoop of apple ‘n spice ice cream, so bring your appetite and sense of apple curiosity!

On October 29th, the Regional District hosts its annual “Spooktacular Halloween Pumpkin Walk” at the Gellatly Nut Farm in West Kelowna from 6 pm to 8 pm. Bring a carved pumpkin, a flashlight & a donation for the West Kelowna Food Bank. Carved pumpkins will be placed throughout the nut orchard, so wear your Halloween costume and stroll by the light of jack-o-lanterns! Enjoy a spooky, fun-filled atmosphere that will include music, magic, munchies, & more!

Happy adventuring!

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.