Hallockville Teaches Kids About Farm Life

Riverhead's rich agricultural roots will be celebrated on Saturday, as the hosts its annual "Springtime at Hallockville" family event from 1 to 4 p.m; a rain date is scheduled for May 6.

“Life on the Farm,” is this year's theme, and the day's festivities include a new baby calf born to Zoe, Hallockville's visiting Jersey cow; a naming contest will be held to find a new moniker for the calf.

Kids will also be able to try out introductory activities from Hallockville's upcoming summer camp, including farm animal handling, gardening, and farming. Summer camp kicks off on July 9.

"Kids and their parents can get a feel for what the camp program will offer and see what an exciting place the Museum Farm will be this summer," Geri Morenstern, children's activities coordinator at Hallockville, said.

Other activities will include story time with baby chicks, a spring relay race, cow plop bingo, a raffle, and door prizes; volunteer master gardeners will offer gardening tips, as well.

“Geri’s enthusiasm for connecting kids of all ages to our shared agricultural heritage is perfectly aligned with our mission,” says Museum Farm Executive Director Herb Strobel.

Entrance fees for Hallockville members are $5 / $15 for a family of four; with a price of $6/ $18 for a family of four for non members; children under 5 are free.

Also coming up on Hallockville's agenda for the season is the annual Fleece and Fiber Fair, which will take place on May 19 and 20. Due to demand, the event has been expanded to two days; the only event of its kind on Long Island, the fair draws visitors from New York City and other areas.