Today we are talking about a local farm and agritainment destination in the East Valley that we love, Schnepf Farms.
Two years ago, my family moved into our forever home that just happens to be across the street from Schnepf Farms. My husband and I were strategic in our home picking because we wanted a place close by our kids could frequent that was fun for everyone. Luckily for us, it’s within walking distance.
In the time we have lived in Queen Creek (over seven years), we have gone to at least one of Schnepf Farms many events each year. We love it! Our kids love it! And the great thing is that it doesn’t have to be an event for you to show up and see the farm.
If you’re wanting to plan a visit, see what Schnepf Farms has to offer, or just get some helpful tips and tricks for your next visit, see our helpful guide below.
XO,
Amanda
What is Schnepf Farms:
They are a local, family-owned farm that boasts a u-pick garden, petting zoo, ropes course, bakery, café, country store, festivals, wedding events, and vintage trailer glamping. Their farm and bakery are open every Thursday through Sunday 8 AM to 4 PM, that includes VIP tours and train rides. Festivals and event times vary depending on the season and activity.
Being that the farm is free to walk into when not during festival times, makes it the perfect spot to take your kids to burn off some energy and see (and pet) some animals.
What Festivals do they have?
Every year, you can count on the following festivals to occur. But keep in mind, they occasionally host additional events depending on the year.
Easter Egg-Citement- Happening the Saturday before Easter: for over 25 years, the Schnepf’s have hosted this annual Easter Egg Hunt. They separate the hunts depending on age (last year having four groups at two different times), cookie decorating, and rides.
U-Pick Peaches- Coming May 2024: Make reservations through their website to come and pick their peach trees.
Hometown 4th of July- Occurring every 4th of July, Schnepf Farms hosts a nighttime only festival that costs per carload, not per person. This event hosts food trucks, craft vendors, inflatables, live music, rides, fireworks, and more.
Pumpkin and Chili Party- Throughout the month of October: This festival has a corn maze, spooky train ride, rides for the whole family, pig races, chili (of course), a pumpkin patch, and live entertainment.
Christmas at Schnepf Farms- Between Thanksgiving and Christmas: Besides having 1,000’s of lights, this festival includes a hayride to reindeer (that you can feed), mini golf, ice skating, Santa, carousel, inflatables, obstacle course, bonfires, cookies, letters to Santa, Christmas movies, pinecone decorating, trolly rides, carolers, and my family’s favorite, the Illumination Express Train Ride that has synchronized lights that play with music.
Other events to potentially watch out for:
Good Life Festival: A music festival that typically occurs in March.
Schnepf Farms Agritainment: A fair of sorts that occurs typically in the springtime.
Yoga at the Farm: Occurring at varying times throughout the year.
Queen Creek Family Market: Currently being hosted on the farm for the months of January, February, March, and April. Check their website for more information: https://queencreekfamilymarket.com/
Mom Hack: For the little ones, bring a wagon. The farm is not small, and it will be easier on the whole family if they can sit in the wagon for a little bit. Also, bring your own water and some snacks to eliminate the need for lots of food. The cost of food can increase fast, especially if your kids are going hungry from the start. Lastly, wear walking shoes. There is not a part of the farm that is paved, therefore leaving your feet dirty, muddy, and sore if not prepared.
How does their U-Pick Garden work?
During operating hours, you can show up and pick vegetables (pesticide free) from their garden that are ready to be harvested. Be sure to pick up your basket and garden sheers before stepping into the garden. They are typically located at their garden center. When in doubt, there is always an employee around who can help you along the way. Once you are done picking your vegetables, you can wash them and then pay for them by the pound in the Garden Center.
Don’t want to pick them yourself? Worry not, you can walk into the Garden Center and buy already picked vegetables.
Mom hack: Take your kids, no matter their age, and let them do the picking! I guarantee they are more apt to eat the vegetables they pick themselves more so than any regular night.
And their Vintage Trailer Glamping?
The Cozy Peach is Schnepf Farms glamping getaway! They are Arizona’s largest display of vintage Airstreams, Spartans, Silver Streaks, and more. Each trailer includes their own grass yard, patio, fire ring, flat screen TV with Netflix, kitchen, gas grill, and more. Check out Amy’s review here.
Be sure to stay up to date on their current and upcoming events on their website, or social media for any flash ticket sales.