Do I need to make a reservation to pick fruit?

Reservations with slotted times are highly recommended during peak season to manage crowds and ensure entry.

Are pets allowed on the farm?

Pets are generally not permitted to maintain safety and hygiene around animals and produce.

Is the farm accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

The farm is mostly accessible, with flat paths, though some areas like orchards can be uneven.

What safety measures are in place for children?

Staff actively monitor play areas and animal zones; parental supervision is encouraged at all times.

Can I purchase farm products if I don’t want to pick my own?

Yes, the farm shop offers a variety of produce, baked goods, jams, and nuts without picking.

What are the parking options at Demarest Farms?

Parking is available onsite; arriving on weekdays or early in the day on weekends improves availability.

Autumn Adventures at Demarest Farms, Hillsdale NJ

Demarest Farms offers a unique slice of outdoor family fun just outside New York City, situated in Hillsdale, New Jersey. This working farm combines classic fall traditions with festive seasonal events that draw crowds looking to soak up the harvest vibes and fresh country air. Known for its pick-your-own fruit experiences, visitors come prepared to fill baskets with crisp apples and juicy peaches grown right on site. The orchard stretches across rolling farmland where neat rows of fruit trees change color with the seasons, inviting hands-on engagement with nature. Beyond fruit picking, Demarest Farms activates the entire family with a variety of themed events. Come October, the Halloween Light Show transforms the farm at night, blending handcrafted displays and immersive lighting that delight kids and adults alike. Daytime guests enjoy the Orchard of Lights, pumpkin patches fully stocked with colorful gourds, and farm-fresh baked goods such as their celebrated apple cider donuts—often cited as among the best in the region. Children can wander toward the petting zoo or play structures, while adults savor harvest-season staples from the farm shop, including homemade jams, jellies, nuts, and a well-regarded salad bar and sandwich station. For special occasions, events like Stewie the Duck's Family Fun Day and Scotty Mac’s Sippy Poo BBQ add festive flare. The farm also hosts the New Jersey Wine Festival, highlighting local viticulture amid scenic farmland. Accessibility and crowd management have improved with slotted visit times, making for a comfortable visit even during peak weekends. While the prices lean a bit higher than a supermarket, Demarest Farms delivers a hands-on rural experience that city dwellers and suburban families treasure—a living chapter of New Jersey’s agricultural heritage and seasonal celebration. Whether harvesting fruit, savoring freshly baked treats, or taking in colorful illumination, the farm holds something tangible and memorable at every visit.

About Demarest Farms

Demarest Farms is a farm in Hillsdale, New Jersey, known for seasonal pick-your-own fruit, farm events, and community-focused activities. The farm offers apple and peach picking, pumpkin patches, scenic hayrides, a farmyard petting zoo, and specialized events such as the New Jersey Wine Festival and the Orchard of Lights. Each season features curated activities: spring and summer fruit picking, charitable barbecues and family fun days, and autumn harvest events tailored for families, schools, and groups. Reservations are required for limited experiences like pick-your-own peaches and pumpkins, ensuring an organized and enjoyable visit. Demarest Farms hosts fundraising events that support organizations such as the Fisher House Foundation and the Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation, highlighting a commitment to local causes and public safety. The farm operates rain or shine for select festivals, providing reliable planning information for visitors. Demarest Farms emphasizes safe, educational experiences with supervised school group visits that include hayrides, petting zoo interactions, fresh-pressed cider, and apple cider donuts. The Orchard of Lights is a guided vehicle tour across 32 acres with holiday displays, fire pits, and family-friendly entertainment. The farm’s mix of hands-on agriculture, seasonal entertainment, and philanthropic events makes it a trusted destination for Hudson Valley and northern New Jersey families seeking authentic farm experiences. Visitors can expect clear reservation policies, seasonal schedules, and community-oriented programming that prioritize visitor enjoyment and safety. On-site retail markets feature fresh local goods, and friendly staff provide guidance to make every visit comfortable and memorable for all ages daily today.

Autumn Adventures at Demarest Farms, Hillsdale NJ

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