There’s something about a farm that captures the atmosphere of the seas. A striking field of sunflowers as golden as a setting sun. A sea of ramrod straight corn stalks. Plump pumpkins rolling across the ground, ready for carving.

If that sounds to you like the perfect way to celebrate a season, head to Laura’s Farm Stand near Cookstown.

Raised on a family farm, Laura Wardlaw started her own venture into agriculture in 2011, opening Laura’s Farm Stand. As the name suggests, the venture was originally just a roadside stand selling vegetables grown on her 30-acre farm, but over time she dove into agritourism.

Families can be thankful that she did, as Laura’s Farm Stand is a joyful place to spend an afternoon in the summer and autumn. Its popularity is such that Laura’s Farm Stand is now one of the region’s most popular agritourism destinations.

Throughout the summer, fields are alive with colour as wildflower fields burst into brilliant bloom. There are tens of thousands of flowers of various types and in every colour nature can imagine. These blooms made a spectacular backdrop for family photos. You can also pick your own flowers and build a bouquet to take home with you at the end of your visit.

As the shadows begin to lengthen and evenings cool, sunflowers burst into brilliance to remind us that summer is on its last legs. Celebrate the tail end of the season by exploring the one-half km long Sunflower Trail at Laura’s Farm Stand. In the middle of the trail, pause for a moment and enjoy the experience of being surrounded by a sea of yellow.

A trail of another kind emerges as summer gives way to autumn. The traditional corn maze is a favourite with people of all ages. Covering five acres, the maze is sizeable enough for a thrill but no so large that you’ll get turned around and frustrated, making it ideal for children. Expect it to take about a half hour to complete.

No visit to an autumn farm would be complete without the opportunity to pick your own pumpkin (flannel coats optional). Venture out into the patch to pluck the perfect pumpkin from their twisting vines. With more than sixty different types of gourds cultivated, there are plenty of options. Be sure to capture the experience with photos. The pumpkin patch runs until October 31.

Never fear, however, if you don’t want to venture out into the fields. You can select from pre-picked pumpkins at the farm stand.

Be sure to circle your calendar for September 20 and 21 when the farm hosts a market attended by over 100 vendors, selling everything from honey to baked goods to crafts.

As the seasons change, so too does Laura’s Farm Stand. You may find yourself inspired to visit more than once.

Just the Facts

Location: 5590 County Road 27, Cookstown
For more information go to: laurasfarmstand.com