Congaree and Penn began its Fall on the Farm Grounds event on Friday, Sept. 26. It is open to the public with the purchase of a farm pass on most Friday evenings and Saturday and Sunday afternoons and evenings through Nov. 2.
Opening weekend had a great turnout. Saturday was warm and sunny, but as the evening approached, a cool breeze hinted at the promise of cooler weather in the weeks to come. The pumpkin patch was the perfect place for photos and fall fun. There were plenty of shady picnic tables by the water for guests to enjoy live music and delicious dinners from the food truck. The farm grounds bar had refreshing cold-pressed cider made on the farm.
Guests enjoyed relaxing by the water and visiting the various animals that live on the grounds. The zebu miniature cows and goats grazed peacefully while energetic emus played in the pasture. Horses were spotted enjoying the sunshine in a neighboring pasture and ducks roamed freely on the grounds, searching for fallen breadcrumbs.
In addition to farm fun, Congaree and Penn has a farm-fresh restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating near the vineyard. Guests dined on a seasonal autumn menu full of hearty food that complimented the season such as pumpkin curry with roasted root vegetables and short rib with whipped potatoes, mushrooms, carrots and pearl onions. The dessert menu presented decadent treats including chocolate mousse with cranberry compote, toasted marshmallow ice cream and praline cookies.
The first weekend of Fall on the Farm Grounds was a success and brought lots of family-friendly fun to the table.
Farm passes are required for all guests ages 2 and older to access the farm grounds. Farm passes can be purchased upon arrival and are not offered for advance purchase. Food, beverages and pumpkins will be available to purchase separately on the farm grounds.
For information about farm passes, go to congareeandpenn.com/farm-passes. For information about Fall on the Farm Grounds and to see the lineup of entertainment, go to congareeandpenn.com/fall.
Congaree and Penn is located at 11830 Old Kings Road, Jacksonville.
