With the scarecrows standing still in the open field as the leaves fall, the time for the autumn equinox is here. Throughout the season, Hillsborough Township and Califon Borough offer a plethora of events and festivals to celebrate the season’s changing colors, and these are just some of the options. Fall festivities can be found at Norz Hill Farm, Abma’Farm and Califan Orchards to name a few.
One event this autumn is the annual Scare Farm at Norz Hill Farm. According to scare actor and staff member Emily Henderson, this spooktacular event will entail many frights and scares, including the ever popular and bone-chilling Chaotica, a haunted walking trail the hair-raising Slayride, a terrifying hayride along the premises of the farm, that will leave participants have you shaking in fear. “There’s something for everyone,” Henderson said. “Definitely check out the opening area where there are actors there. Interact with them and get a feel for what it’s going to be like.”
Henderson said that hay rides to the pumpkin patch and animal tours will also be open to the public, as well as a Children’s Halloween Party. Additionally, the Kids Corner will be available during the Fall Harvest Days, where a Kids Bale Maze, Corn Boxes, and more will be offered for young ghouls and goblins.
This family friendly event, offered at various price points, is available through the end of the month.
This season, Abma’s Farm in Hillsborough is offering a hayride, corn maze, and Petting Zoo Adventure. This package will run through Halloween. Tickets are $18 per person and children under 24 months can enjoy free admission. While at this harvest festival, you can also anticipate the option to purchase pumpkins in their market, with the cost being accumulated by weight.
Another option for beautiful scenery and fresh apple picking right off the tree is Califon Orchards. Located in Califon, this site features apple picking as well as sunflower cutting. Fruits such as Asian pears, Gala, Blondee, Fuji, McIntosh, and Honeycrisp apples are available to pick. Weekend entry costs $5.99, which includes a wagon ride to the farm, while weekday entries are $3.99. The Orchard is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and the U-Pick Reservations are available through October 31.
For more information on Scare Farm, Abma’s Farm, and Califon Orchard please visit https://norzhillfarm.com/scare-farm, https://www.abmasfarm.com/hillsborough/events/, https://melickstownfarm.com/.
