Autumn is truly my very favorite time of the year on Long Island. With the gorgeous colors of the fall, the crisp air, and the many activities offered at our local farms, there is no better place to be than on Long Island. Our farmers have worked diligently to present fun festivals with plenty to do and see for all ages. They have set the stage for this spectacular season with hayrides, pumpkin picking, seasonal brews, amazing photo opportunities with natural backdrops, and more. Visiting these farms will surely create beautiful memories for you, your family, and your friends.

 White Post Farms, Melville 

Andrea with her adorable grandchildren

White Post Farms is celebrating 34 years of bringing families and friends together to enjoy special days at their farm. The Giraffe Experience allows you to feed carrots to an adult and a baby giraffe. There are two bird aviaries full of friendly birds. For $2.00, you can purchase and hold a bird food stick. The birds will fly onto the stick where you can observe their beauty up close. Hand feed a zebra, ostriches, goats, and sheep. This year’s Fall Festival features extra activities such as a dog show, a singing pig show, a barnyard dance party, and a musical hayride. Festival foods are a huge hit. Roasted corn, apple cider donuts, heaping nachos, and sweets are all available. Cash only. For all the information, visit the website. Tickets can be purchased online for an additional fee or you can pay at the door with cash only. This is one fun experience. www.whitepostfarms.net 

Bakewicz Farms, Wading River  

Bakewicz Farms Fall Festival takes place only on the weekends throughout October and is one festival not to be missed. The $15 admission fee includes unlimited hayrides, an interactive corn maze, a playground for the kids, unlimited barrel train rides, a barnyard with friendly animals, live music, and a picnic area. Adults can enjoy The Silo, a custom-built corn silo bar, that sells beer, wine, and hard cider. Head on over to the Snack Shack for some apple cider donuts, popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, and ice cream. The Farm Stand is fully stocked with locally grown fruits and vegetables. Jams, pies, pickles, and cake loaves are also available. Come early. Stay late. It is a fabulous way to spend your day.  www.bakewiczfarmsny.com 

Waterdrinker Family Farm, Manorville

Open seven days a week in October, Waterdrinker Family Farm is a fun way to spend any day. Pick out your perfect pumpkin. Get lost in the corn maze. Play mini golf. Visit the barnyard animals. Enjoy a hay ride. Listen to live music. Bounce around on the jumbo jump pad. There is something to do for everyone. Take stunning family photos in the sunflower field or the pumpkin field. Many memories will be made here. www.water-drinker.com 

Finks Farm, Wading River 

Open weekends through October, Fink’s Fall Harvest Fest awaits your arrival and has a special day planned for you. The $23 admission cost includes an animated chicken show, barnyard buddies, a corn maze, character appearances, a jump pad, and multiple age-appropriate play areas for the kids. Sit back and enjoy live music in the picnic area. Outside food is welcome. There is a snack shack where you can purchase food. Pony rides are available for an additional cost. There are many natural backdrops for photo opportunities. You will fall in love with this farm. www.finksfarm.com