by Kristen Kucharski
Corn Mazes to Christmas Trees
Over all the years, I have taken the girls to various pumpkin patches like Johansen’s, Siegel’s, Kuipers, and Keller’s, enjoying each immensely; but as they are growing older, I set out this year to find something that would still provide entertainment for their current ages, while maintaining the traditional seasonal family fun. Abbey Farms is not like other farms - no haunting themes, no electronic games, no gimmicks, just clean old-fashioned outdoor fun for everyone of all ages.
They offer three seasons: produce in the summer, Pumpkin Daze in the fall, and Christmas trees in the winter. It didn’t take much more than a $6 admission fee with the bonus of a $1-off coupon for me to consider digging deeper into this unique farm. I quickly discovered that for $5/kid, I could show up at 6 p.m. and allow my group of tweening teens to explore the 10-acre corn maze under the moonlight. With flashlights in hand, I’m sure the screams and giggles could be heard from wherever you live in the western suburbs.
The bonus factor was renting a private fire pit with unlimited firewood and s’mores and hanging out at the bonfire in between all the other activities, which included a giant jumping pillow, mega slides, pumpkin catapults ($), hayrides, and adult pedal carts. Groupon deals were abundant for the 40-acre farm which offers unlimited all-day access to all these activities plus your traditional petting zoos and pony rides. From toddlers to teens, this was the place to be. As the season has changed and the holidays are upon us, I have my eyes set on starting a new Kucharski tradition of chopping down our very own Christmas tree amongst the 120 acres on Abbey Farms. With complimentary tree netting and tree shaking, along with as much hot chocolate as we desire, it seems like the perfect next adventure for Mom’s Black Book. -Kristen Kucharski
Details
Location: Abbey Farms, 2855 Hart Road, Aurora, IL 60502
Contact: (630) 966-7775 • www.abbeyfarms.org
Hours: Hours vary by day and season
Prices: Prices vary by activities selected
Description: Abbey Farms boasts three seasons of fun for all ages; produce in the summer, Pumpkin Daze in the fall, and Christmas trees in the winter. They have also recently added the Nagel Emporium, offering rustic-chic barn rentals for special events.
about the writer Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen joins Glancer Magazine with her column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy.
