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Experience a lively day of BBQ, hayrides, and petting zoos at Demarest Farms, supporting vital water safety lessons for kids. Discover why Stewie the Duck's Family Fun Day is a standout summer event near New York City.
Experience a lively day of BBQ, hayrides, and petting zoos at Demarest Farms, supporting vital water safety lessons for kids. Discover why Stewie the Duck's Family Fun Day is a standout summer event near New York City.
Book with Demarest Farms
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Operated by Demarest Farms · Hillsdale, New Jersey
Stewie the Duck's Family Fun Day offers an engaging and heartwarming outdoor experience located at Demarest Farms in Hillsdale, New Jersey. This lively farm event unfolds across a sprawling rural landscape just a short drive from the bustling New York metropolitan area, providing a perfect escape to enjoy fresh air, wholesome activities, and community spirit. Guests of all ages are invited to participate in a day packed with fun and purposeful moments dedicated to supporting the Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation, which works tirelessly to prevent accidental drownings by funding free swim lessons for children in need.
Upon arrival at Demarest Farms, visitors are welcomed by the scent of fresh produce from the farm’s stand and the cheerful sounds of live music in the background. The event features a classic farmyard lineup: mouthwatering BBQ to satisfy hearty appetites, hayrides rolling through scenic fields, and games for kids that spark genuine laughter and friendly competition. The farm's petting zoo offers a hands-on encounter with gentle animals, fostering a connection to nature and rural life that’s rare to find so close to urban centers.
Demarest Farms itself is more than just a venue — it is a symbol of New Jersey’s agricultural heritage. The farm produces seasonal fruits and vegetables, allowing visitors to appreciate locally sourced food up close. The location’s gentle hills and open fields provide a tranquil, inviting setting where families can unwind, learn about water safety, and experience community engagement in a relaxed atmosphere.
What sets this event apart is its cause-driven foundation: every year, the proceeds directly benefit free swim lessons for children, saving lives and building confidence in the water. Attending Stewie the Duck's Family Fun Day is thus more than entertainment; it’s an opportunity to be part of a meaningful movement dedicated to safe aquatic recreation.
Whether you're traveling with family or seeking a wholesome outdoor activity near New York City, this fun-filled day at Demarest Farms promises a balance of fresh farm experiences, lively entertainment, and heartfelt philanthropy. It’s an accessible, enjoyable way to immerse yourself in New Jersey’s rural charm, support a vital safety cause, and create lasting memories.
easy.
5–6 hours.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; primarily low-impact walking and standing.
Yes, the event has plenty of kid-friendly activities including games and a petting zoo.
Pets are generally not permitted to ensure safety and hygiene for animals and attendees.
Most vendors accept cash and major credit cards, but bringing cash is recommended for convenience.
Yes, Demarest Farms provides ample parking for visitors coming by car.
The event supports the funding of swim lessons, but lessons are scheduled separately through the Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation.
Outside food and drink are discouraged to support farm vendors, but accommodations can be discussed for special dietary needs.
Demarest Farms has operated since 1900, reflecting over a century of New Jersey’s farming tradition.
Demarest Farms emphasizes sustainable agriculture and supports local biodiversity by maintaining natural habitats on its property.
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.
Book with Demarest Farms