Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Let's not take CHRIST out of Christmas :)

The true meaning of the Candy Cane

Look at the Candy Cane
What do you see?
Stripes that are red
Like the blood shed for me

White is for my Savior
Who's sinless and pure!
"J" is for Jesus My Lord, that's for sure!

Turn it around
And a staff you will see
Jesus my shepherd
Was born for Me!



Candy Canes are YUMMY!
When you see a candy cane, are you reminded of how much Jesus loves you? Jesus came to earth over 2000 years ago to demonstrate His love for the WHOLE world!


A GREAT IDEA
Share the love of Jesus with your neighbors and friends! Make a few of the crafts and recipes below. Print the story of the candy cane and attach to your "gift." Dress in Christmassy colors and visit your neighbors. Wish them "Merry Christmas" and give them your candy cane gift :) It will warm their heart as well as yours this season!

The LEGEND of the Candy Cane
A Candymaker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would help us remember who Christmas is really about. So he made a Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols for the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ.
He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the virgin birth and sinless nature of Jesus. Hard candy to symbolize the solid rock, the foundation of the Church, and firmness of the promises of God.
The candymaker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the name of Jesus. It also represented the staff of the "Good Shepherd".
The candymaker then included red stripes. He used three small stripes and a large red stripe to represent the suffering Christ endured at the end of his life.
The candy became known as a Candy Cane - a decoration seen at Christmas time. The meaning has faded, but still gives joy to children young and old, whom Jesus loves and treasures.


Nothing warms the heart like HOT COCOA!
Candy Cane Cocoa
4 cups milk3 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, chopped4 peppermint candy canes, crushed1 cup whipped cream4 small peppermint candy canes
Heat the milk until steaming hot - NOT boiling. Add the chocolate and crushed peppermint candy and allow them to melt and become smooth.
Pour into Christmas mugs and garnish with whipped cream. Add candy cane stirring stick to make it extra special :)

Candy Cane Recipe Ideas

Candy Cane Fudge
1 package vanilla milk chips 1 can Pillsbury Vanilla Creamy Supreme Icing 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 4 drops of red food coloring 2 Tablespoons of peppermint candy canes (chopped)
Put vanilla chips in pan on the stove at medium heat. Continue stirring until the chips have melted. Add icing to pan and continue stirring. Take off heat and add peppermint extract until dissolved. Pour mixture into a pan. Take food coloring and add one drop in each corner of pan. Take butter knife and begin stirring until the food coloring has been swirled into the fudge. Add chopped peppermint pieces to top of fudge. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator until the fudge has harden. Cut into small pieces.

Chocolate Candy Cane Bites
4 3-oz. chocolate bars, 2 semisweet 1 milk & 1 white chocolate1/2 c Crushed candy canes
Using 3 separate bowls for the 3 different types of chocolate, melt the candy bars. Stir half of the candy into the semisweet chocolate. Set aside a little of the candy for sprinkling and then stir the remaining candy into the other 2 types of chocolate. Drop by teaspoons onto a parchment lined tray. Top each with a drop of the milk and the white chocolates. Sprinkle with the candy and allow time to harden.


Candy Cane Cookies
Ingredients:1 cup butter - softened 1 cup confectioners' sugar 1 egg 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup finely crushed candy canes 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Directions:Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a large bowl, with an electric beater on medium speed, cream the butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and the peppermint and vanilla extracts and beat until well blended. Gradually add the flour and salt; mix well. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour. Coat two baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray. In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed candy canes and the granulated sugar; mix well. Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls then roll each ball in the candy cane mixture; place on the baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until browned. Immediately remove from the baking sheets and place on wire racks to cool.

Candy Crunch White Bark
Ingredients:1 pound vanilla-flavor candy coating3/4 cup crushed fruit-flavor candy canes
Line a baking sheet with foil; set aside. Heat candy coating in a heavy medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until candy is melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Stir in 1/2 cup of the crushed candy canes. Pour mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread mixture to about 3/8-inch thickness. Sprinkle with the remaining crushed candies.
Chill candy about 30 minutes or until firm. (Or, let candy stand at room temperature for several hours until firm.) Use foil to lift firm candy from the baking sheet; carefully break candy into pieces. Store tightly covered up to 2 weeks. Makes 1 pound (16 servings).


Jesus is the REASON for the season!
From the book of Luke:

2:7
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

2:8
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

2:9
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

2:10
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

2:11
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

2:12
And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

2:13
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

2:14
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.


Candy Cane Craft Ideas

Candy Cane Reindeer
What do you need?1 12" pipe cleanerRibbon - Christmas ColorWiggley eyes 4mm or 5mm1 1/4" red pom-pomScissors, glue
Loop the pipe cleaner underneath the curved end of the candy cane. Twist until it's nice and tight. Spread the ends apart to form the antlers. Glue the eyes and nose in place. Decorate with the ribbon around the reindeer's neck :)

Candy Cane Candle
What do you need?1 small round candleEnough candy canes to go around the candle.*** Canes need to be same height as candle ***GluePretty Christmas Ribbon
Glue each of the candy canes to the candle until the candle is completely covered.
Decorate with Christmas ribbon and bow :)

Monday, November 30, 2009

Spy Secret Agent Birthday Party

Secret Agent Party


Secret Agent Institute Nancy Drew, Kim Possible, Alias, Spy Kids, Inspector Gadget, Men in Black, 007, James Bond, Get Smart, Agent 99

The training starts when your guests arrive and receive a special agent spy kit and will learn the art of disguise, crack codes, conduct surveillance operations and have a fantastic time learning the secrets of the spy world.

Spy Kids InstituteParty Package for 8 children
*1.5 hours of Unique and Fun Training Activities in the form of Party Games, Crafts & Top Secret Activities
*Two Agent Party Hosts
*Detective Decorations
*Spy Kit for Each Child (Favor Bags)
*Individual Photos for each guest (Agent ID Badge) Contact us to start the mission!

Extra Supplies, Cake, Cake Plates & Cups, Invitations, PiƱata, Tables and Chairs

Age Suggestion is 7 & up. Younger children will need the assistance of an adult with many of the activities.

OUR THEMES
Arty Party . Baby 1st Birthday . Baby Gym . Ballet . Barnyard Blast . Beach Party . Beading Blast . Boys Sleepover . Build a Friend . Butterfly Madness . Candyland . Character Party . Chef’s Special . Circus Circus . Cowboy Hoedown . Dancing Divas . DJ Dance Party . Fabulous 50’s . Fairy Dreams . Fashion Fab . Gameland . Garden Kids . Girl Scouts . Glamour Gal . Hawaiian Festival . Indiana Jones Adventure . Jungle Mania . Make-over Magic . Party Girlz . Pirate Party . Pop Star . Pretend Sleepover . Princess/Prince . Road Rally . Secret Agent/Spy . Scrapbooking . Slumber Girlz . Spa Day . Special Forces/Soldier . Sports Fun . Super Hero . Tea Party Classic . Teddy and Me Tea . Tie Dye Flashback . Under the Sea

DON'T SEE WHAT YOUR LOOKING FOR? NO PROBLEM, WE'LL CREATE A THEME AND ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR EVENT!

Agaperabba Entertainment(626) 692-4918 Email us at: Agaperabba@msn.com

Friday, November 20, 2009

Edible Play Dough Recipes

Edible Play Dough Recipes

Peanut Butter/Graham Cracker Play Dough
Equal amounts of Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Cream
Graham Crackers
First, have the children wash their hands before beginning so they can safely lick their fingers during this project. Allow children to crumble up Graham Crackers into crumbs, then set these aside. Let them have just a little touch of the Marshmallow Cream and a little touch of peanut butter to feel the different textures and to lick off their fingers. Mix the peanut butter and Marshmallow Cream together and have the children notice the change in texture. Cover surface area with wax paper or use a breadboard, let children make into shapes. Roll shapes in Graham Cracker crumbs, then eat!Storage: When not using, MUST be stored in an airtight container.

Kool-Aid Play Dough
1 cup flour1 cup water
1/2 cup salt
3 teaspoons Cream of Tartar
1 package Kool-Aid Mix (any flavor of unsweetened)
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Mix dry ingredients together in a large saucepan. Slowly add water mixed with oil and stir over medium heat until mixture thickens to dough. Turn out onto a heatproof bread board or counter top and knead until cool enough for children to handle. Dough will be the color of the Kool-Aid mix and will smell like the Kool-Aid mix. (Can be stored in a tightly covered container for up to six months) Jell-O Play Dough 1 cup flour1/2 cup salt1 cup water1 tablespoon oil2 teaspoons Cream of Tartar1 (3-1/2 oz.) package "unsweetened" Jell-O
Mix all ingredients together and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until consistency of mashed potatoes. Let cool and knead with floured hands until dry.Storage: This recipe needs to cool completely "before" storing it in an airtight container!Note: The items made from this play dough recipe can be painted when they are dry.

Oatmeal Play Dough
1 part flour
2 parts oatmeal1 part water
Mix ingredients together and form into shapes.
Note: The items made from this play dough recipe can be painted when they are dry.

Peanut Butter Play Dough
one 18-oz. jar creamy peanut butter
6 tablespoons honey
3/4 cup non-fat dry milk
Mix ingredients together, using varying amounts of dry milk for desired consistencies. Knead it with fingers, forming into desired shapes, adding other foods like M&M's or peanuts for eyes, mouths, etc. Great fun!
Storage: When not using, MUST be stored in an airtight container.

Cream Cheese Play Dough
8 oz. package of cream cheese
1/2 cup non-fat dry milk
1 tablespoon honey crackers or bread slices
Combine cream cheese, milk and honey in a bowl and mix until well blended. Mold sculptures on was paper.Storage: Unused portions
MUST BE STORED in an airtight container and kept refrigerated! Because cream cheese is perishable, use the expiration date on the cream cheese package as your guide for how long you can keep this play dough.Note: The shapes can then be placed on crackers or bread slices, decorated with edibles (celery or carrot slivers, raisins, dried fruit pieces, nuts, or seeds for a healthy snack ... then eat!

Enjoy! http://www.agaperabba.com/

Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation

Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation
Abraham Lincoln
It is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scripturesand proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the LORD.

We know that by His divine law, nations, like individuals, are subjected to punishments and chastisements in this world. May we not justly fear that the awful calamity of civil war which now desolates the land may be a punishment inflicted upon us for our presumptuous sins, to the needful end of our national reformation as a whole people?We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has ever grown.But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to, feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.

--Abraham Lincoln - October 3, 1863

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Family fun - Visit a California Farm

CALIFORNIA FARMS - Please call the farm ahead of time and check times and dates of availability! Happy Harvest!

Kern County (Bakersfield area)
Dries Farms - Apples and Raspberries 22710 Highline Road, Tehachapi, CA. Phone: 661-823-9829. Open: Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm; Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Happy Trails Family farm - pumpkins, summer squash, tomatoes, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)20348 Orchard Street, Tehachapi, CA 93561. Phone: (661) 822-5800. Email: clhorvath@yahoo.com. Directions: And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in August, September, October. Open: "See our website for current hours;". Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. (ADDED: November 15, 2008)
Hartnett Farm - follows organic methods, apples, apricots, peaches, plums, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), and prepicked produce, school tours21850 Highway 202, Tehachapi, CA 93561. Phone: 661-822-4677. Email: hartnettfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: Exit Tehahcapi 202 from Hwy 58, turn right on Valley Blvd which becomes Hwy 202. Follow Hwy 202 about 6 miles. Hartnett farm will be on the left side, long white fence and sign post in front of orchard. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October, November. Open: Sundays 11am to 6pm Cherries: June 10th through June 30th. Plums: August Peaches: August We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. U-pick or we pick; six varieties of apples. U-press cider.
Knaus Ranch - apples, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, school tours19042 Cherry Lane, Tehachapi, CA 93561. Phone: 661-822-4142. Email: ronnie@knausappleranch.com. Directions: From Bakersfield ca. take the 58 east to Tehachapi Ca. take the first exit (202 and correctional inst. exit) pass 2 traffic lights and one stop sign and we are just to the right passed the stop sign ( Tucker road and Cherry Lane) From L.A and Palmdale take the 14 north to Mojave and the 58 west to Tehachapi and it will be the 3rd exit (202 and correctional institution exit). And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open: See our website for current hours. September 19th through October 31st until all the apples are gone. Payment: Cash, Check. We have U pick or We pick Apples (Red and Golden Delicious) ;jam's ; jelly's ; butter's ;crafts, apple peelers ;apple chip's and much much more. We accommodate large groups and school's and plenty of parking. (UPDATED: August 18, 2008)
Kolesars' Apples - apples, cherriesPhone: 661-945-9027. Directions: corner of Highline and Casey Drive, Tehachapi, CA. Five varieties of apples at our u-pick orchard. July 1,2,&3 open to pick cherries 9-4.
MaryAnn's Country - figs18940 Palm Avenue, Bakersfield, CA, 93314. Phone: 661-589-4435. Email us at: maryann@maryannscountry.com. We have a petting zoo environment, goats, rabbits, chickens, doves, pigeons, horses, dogs, cats, butterflies, etc. We also have several carriages and wagons that we give rides on...we pull these wagons and carriages with BIG BEAUTIFUL BLACK PERCHERON draft horses. We have a picnic area and room enough to park a large R.V. We open at 8:00 a.m. Monday to friday, close at dark. Saturday, open at 9:00 am to --close at dark. Sunday open after church 1 p.m.---close at dark..
Murray Family Farm - Strawberries, Asparagus, Sweet Cherries (17 varieties), Apricots, Apriums, Blueberries, Blackberries, Yellow and White Nectarines, Plums and Pluots, Summer Veggies, Sweet Corn, Melons, Heirloom Tomatoes, Asian Pears, Apples, Pumpkins and Gourds, Winter Veggies, Mixed Citrus, Oranges 6700 General Beale Road, Bakersfield, CA 93307. Phone: 661-330-0100. April – May: Strawberries, Asparagus April – July: Sweet Cherries (17 varieties) May – July: Apricots, Apriums May – Aug: Blueberries, Blackberries May – Oct: Yellow and White Nectarines May – Oct: Plums and Pluots May – Oct: Summer Veggies May – Oct: Sweet Corn, Melons June – Oct: Heirloom Tomatoes September – Nov: Asian Pears September – Jan: Apples October – Nov: Pumpkins and Gourds Nov – April: Winter Veggies Nov – July: Mixed Citrus All Year: Oranges
Just click here to see the recipe!
Los Angeles

5 Star Ranch - follows organic methods, cherries40109 90th St. West, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-9101. Email us at: dan@5starranch.com. Directions: From Los Angeles: Interstate 5 North to Hwy 14 North Exit Palmdale Blvd. Go west 10 miles to 90th St. West Turn left to 40109. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open June. Our hours are: Saturday and Sunday 8am to 1pm until picked out. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. We have Bing and Rainier cherries!
A BarnYard Party.com - pony rides, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)We Come To Where The Party Or Event Is, Any Where In California. Phone: 562 394 7456. Email: ponypals4@earthlink.net. Open: All year. We can do church and school events any day of the week. We will soon have wagon rides with our pony. We dress ponies for each holiday. Payment: Cash, only. animals have been in movies. we will take money orders for deposit and cash at the party or event. Thank You!
Al-Salam Farms - poultry3980 Whittier Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. Phone: 323-267-1857. Government authorized Halal. It is zabihah halal. You can pick your own chicken and have it hand slaughtered. (Note: Eewww! Some things I don't wanna see.. But, I guess it's better than store bought. )
Amber's Cherry Farm - cherries, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area9300 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-1919. Email us at: ambersfarm@adelphia.net. Directions: From Los Angeles: 5 freeway north to the 14 freeway north to Palmdale. Exit Palmdale Blvd. Turn left (west). Go 10 miles to Leona Valley and follow the orchard signs. : Click here for a map to our farm. Crops are usually available in May, June. Open: Friday, Saturday & Sunday 8am-6pm for general public. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday for private groups (e-mail for an appointment date: ambersfarm@adelphia.net ) Cherries: May 25-June 15 or until sold out. Access our website for harvest dates, maps, photos, etc or call us at 661-270-1919 for voice recording giving u-pick harvest dates. Dates will vary so call or check our web site before coming up! Payment: Cash, only.
Big John's Cherry Ranch - follows organic methods, apricots, cherries, 9258 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-9565. Email: upickfarm@dslextreme.com. And for a map to our farm, click here or see this page on their website! Crops are usually available in May, June, July. Open: Monday thru Friday 8 to 5; Saturday and Sunday 8 to 5; Important: You must call before you come to check on conditions for that day; There are times we May not be open in order for the fruit to ripen; We also May have sold out for the year. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Visa/MasterCard. follows organic methods, Almonds, Lavender, Lilac, snacks and refreshments, restrooms. (UPDATED: May 10, 2008)
Brian Ranch Airport U-Pick Orchard - apples, Asian pears, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches and pears.34810 Largo Vista Road, Llano, CA, 93544. Phone: 661-261-3216. Phone: 661-261-3216. Email: felice@brianranch.com. Open: June 1 - October 15 on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 2pm and other times by appointment. And if you want to also get off the ground, they have airplane flights available. Directions: One mile north of Pearblossom Hwy (SH 138), 25 miles east of Palmdale and 25 miles west of Victorville. Mailing address is PO Box 355, Llano. (near Pearblossom CA)
Bright Ranch - Bing cherries10600 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-0905. Email us at: briteranch@qnet.com . Directions: From Los Angeles: Freeway 5 north to Freeway 14(to Lancaster/Palmdale). Exit Palmdale Blvd. and turn left (west), approximately nine miles to 4-way stop sign (90th St. west), turn left, then make first right turn on Leona Avenue. Go two miles to Bright Ranch on left. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open June, August. Our hours are: seven days a week until picked out. 8 am to 4 pm. Please call for more up-to-date information. Cherries - early June. (Note, August 2005: they no longer grow Asian pears).
Cal Poly Pomona - strawberries4102 S. University Drive, Pomona, CA 91768. Phone: (909)869-4906. Email: dghostetler@csupomona.edu. Directions: Farm Store at Kellogg Ranch, Located just south of Temple Avenue; Use University Dr. or South Campus Dr. See this page for a map. Open: Monday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm. Cal Poly Pomona will be starting their u-pick strawberries program this spring. It is adjacent to their Farm Store which offers a Trader Joes -like environment and many fruits/veggies/meats raised on the campus by students. In October they also have an amazingly huge pumpkin patch and festival. Payment: Cash, Credit cards.
The California Strawberry Festival - strawberriesStrawberry Meadows of College Park, 3250 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, California. Phone: 888-288-9242. Each year strawberry lovers unite for the premier outdoor event tempting any appetite for fun. The California Strawberry Festival is Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15 from 10 am to 6:30 pm each day. Strawberry Meadows of College Park in Oxnard – California's Strawberry Coast. Admission: $12 Adults, $5 Youth (5-12), $8 Seniors (63+), $8 Active Military and Dependents with ID, Children 4 and under are free. Take the FREE Strawberry Express. Get off the freeway, park and ride our shuttle.

Cherry Pit Ranch - cherries, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms, picnic area40164 90th Street West, Leona Valley, CA 93551Email: cherryfarmer@thecherrypitranch.com. Open: Weekdays from 9am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 5pm; Cherries normally ripen the second week in June and last three weeks; Watch our website for exact ripening dates. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: See our website and click on the "Map & Address" index. Click here for a map and directions. Cherries normally ripen the first weekend in June and last only three weeks; Please email us and we'll email you a notification of ripening dates. Payment: Cash, only. (UPDATED: July 31, 2009)
Hobart's Cherries - Cherries40121 95th Street West, Leona Valley CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-0342. Call for current days and hours we will be open, please call our daily-updated answering machine at: As the oldest cherry orchard in the valley, we are proud to offer a variety of sweet and semi-sweet cherries from large, mature trees. Many of our trees are over 40 years old, and offer more cherries and shade than younger orchards. Amongst our 280 fruit trees, 70% are Bing sweet cherries, and the rest make up a wide mixture of varieties, including Royal and Queen Anne semi-sweets (great for pies and canning). No herbicides, insecticides, or pesticides have been used on our orchard. Please call before planning to visit, as our hours and days vary, Usually, we open at the end of May with sweet cherries, 8-5 on weekdays and 7-5 on weekends. We usually have cherries for 3-4 weeks, but may be closed certain days, in order to allow more cherries to ripen. On some of our busier days, we have had to close early, as all of the ripe fruit has been picked out. NOTE: Anyone picking more than 40 lbs of cherries can arrange a private appointment before or after normal business hours. The best way to do this is to leave a message on our answering machine, with your name and telephone number.
Jlfarms - cherries, 7651 Avenue U, Littlerock, CA 93543. Phone: 661-944-9903. Email: jifarms77u@hotmail.com. Open: Thursday and Friday 10am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday 8am to 5pm; Monday thru Wednesday by appointment. Directions: Los Angeles: Take the Golden State 5 Freeway, North to Antelope 14 Freeway (To Lancaster/Palmdale), take the Angeles Forest Freeway exit toward Pearblossom highway Stay straight on Pearblossom for 5 miles, turn right onto 138 Freeway, turn left onto 75th Street (2.8 miles), turn right onto E Avenue U. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, only. UNFORTUNATELY, the cherries are ripening slower than we thought they would. We will NOT be able to open on May 30th.We will certainly be open for picking Thursday June 4th thru the 4th of July weekend. Check website for updates or call. (UPDATED: May 27, 2009)
Jones Family Halloween Farm - corn (sweet), pumpkins, summer squash, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, petting zoo, farm animalsGlendale, CA 91204. Phone: 8187951320. Email: mcshalloweenfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: We are in the middle of los Angeles right off the 5 freeway. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October, November. Open: Saturday and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm starting September 12th ending Monday November 2nd. Halloween events start September 12th! Please Email to be placed on our waiting list. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. Halloween pumpkin Picking Events, face painting, petting zoo, small picnic area. If you would like to visit one of our weekend events please contact the farm email! We limit our farm to 200 pumpkin pickers per day. (ADDED: December 30, 2008)
Kenny O Design - flowers, pumpkins, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, and prepicked produce, gift shop7353 Clybourn av, sun valley, CA 91352. Phone: 818-759-7159. Fax: 818-759-7166. Email us at: kennyodesign@sbcglobal.net. Directions: 5 freeway north to Sunland Blvd south to Valerio make left to Clybourn av. we are located the corner of Valerio and Clybourn And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in October. Open: Tuesday thru Sunday 9 am to 5 pm Friday open till 7 pm Sunday hours are 10 am to 4 pm call for extended holiday hours October thru December pumpkin patch is open October 6 thru October 31 flower shop and nursery are open year round. cut flowers and arrangements available year round Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, AmEx. tropical plants, bedding plants, banana trees, hanging baskets, indoor and outdoor plants
NorthSide U Pic em Sweet Cherries - cherries, restrooms9729 Northside Drive, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-1290. Email us at: fluhartys@adelphia.net. Directions: From Los Angeles, to the 14 Antelope Valley Freeway, Palmdale Blvd., west for 10 miles. Right on 90th Street West to Northside Drive. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in June. Open:
Rhodes Orchard - cherries 10600 Leona Ave, Leona Valley, CA 93551-7307. Phone: (661) 270-1569. They have Ranier, sour pie, and Bing cherries.
Sky Meadow Farms - No pesticides are used, apples, apricots, cherries, peaches, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms, picnic area, farm animals, school tours11212 Elizabeth Lake Road, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661 270 9524. Open: Saturday And Sundays Only, from 9 am to 5 pm. - BE SURE TO CALL BEFORE YOU GO - AND SPEAK TO A LIVE PERSON - see the note below. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: Take the Antelope valley freeway 14 north Exit Palmdale Boulevard West keep going west till it changes to Elizabeth Lake Road Just 1 mile past 90th Street West Left hand side. Click here for a map and directions. Cherries - June Apricots -June - July Apple - August - November Peaches - September - October. We do not use pesticides on the crops. Payment: Cash, Check. We also sell Firewood for camping, Barbequing, Smoking, and winter supply for heating. Oak fruit woods and Pine. (ADDED: July 02, 2009)A visitor writes on September 17, 2009: "We visited this farm this past Sunday (9/13/09) and they are NOT open! Your website, their website and their phone all say they are open but when we got there, we were told the crop was not good this year and no one was allowed to pick. Please save others the unnecessary and frustrating drive with kids! Thank you!"
Tyler Family Farm - follows organic methods, peaches, and prepicked produce18245 Lancaster Road, Lancaster, CA 93536. Phone: 661-724-1735. Email: chuckwt@yahoo.com. Directions: We are located 4 miles west of the Calif. Poppy Reserve. From Lancaster at Hwy 14 take Avenue I, West appx. 22 miles (Avenue I becomes Lancaster Road at 120th Street West). From Hwy 5 take Hwy 138 East for appx. 25 miles to 170th Street West (look for Calif. Poppy Reserve sign), turn South for appx.2 3/4 miles(170th St. West ends at Lancaster Rd.) Turn West on Lancaster Road for 1 1/4 miles. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open: 8am to 6 pm, 7 days a week during harvest. Harvest runs from late September through mid Oct. We have a orchard of 2200 dwarf Sprauge Last Chance peach trees, all picking is from the ground, no ladders needed. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only.
Villa del Sol Sweet Cherry Farms - cherries, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area6989 Elizabeth Lake Road, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Email us at: info@upickcherries.com. Directions: 14 Freeway to Palmdale Blvd., west til it turns into Elizabeth Lake Road. At corner of Elizabeth Lake Road and Godde Hill Road. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday 8am to 6pm Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx.
Windy Ridge Cherries - Cherries9811 Leona Avenue, Leona Valley, CA 93551. Phone: 661-270-9106. Click here for a map. You are welcome to call to find out about cherries, weather and orchard opening dates. Email at wrcherries@antelecom.net . We will look forward to your visit.
Yingst Ranch - U-pick and pre-picked stone and tree fruit including apricots, peaches, plums, pears, apples, and persimmons35349 80th Street East, Littlerock, CA, 93543. Phone: 661-944-2425. Open: June 15-October 30, 8am-5pm. Closed Mondays. Directions: From Pearblossom Hwy in Littlerock (CA Route 138) North on 80th St approx 1,000 feet. First ranch on left side of street. 8 miles east of Palmdale.
Youngblood Farms - apples, peaches7624 East Avenue U, Littlerock, CA 93543. Phone: 661-944-5823. Fax: 661-947-0087. Email: youngbloodfarm@mail.com. Open: Please call the farm for an appointment at 661-944-5823. Directions: Highway 138 to 75th Street East head North to Avenue U to 7624 East Avenue U, Littlerock, Ca. 93543. Click here for a map and directions. Harvest starts around August for the peaches and September for the Apples. Payment: Cash, only. Look forward to seeing you!. (ADDED: June 27, 2009) (UPDATED: September 13, 2009)
Leona Valley has many more cherry orchards listed on this map.- The area even has its own website. Cherry Information Hotline (24 Hours): (661) 266-7116. U-Pic Orchards are generally open June through July. Sweet cherries should be available for picking during the first week of June. Orchards will begin opening May 28th to June 4th. Cherry Parade is usually early to mid June (check their website)
Do you know of any other pick-your or so of Los Angeles? If you do, tell me about them using the Feedback form! Thanks!!!!!
Orange County
- pumpkins, strawberries5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, California 92612. Phone: 949-653-2100. Fax: 949-653-9050. Email us at: Tanaka Farms - Strawberries, pumpkins and other vegetables and fruits. Corn maze. Guided wagon ride around the farm5380 3/4 University Drive, Irvine, CA, 92612. Phone: 949-653-2100 or 949-653-9050. Email: TanakaFarms@aol.com. Directions: 2 miles north of I-5 and I-405 interchange, take I-405 to University Dr - South to Strawberry Farms Rd on corner. Click here for a map to our farm. and another map is here. We are open for summer hours weekdays 9am-6pm weekends 9am-5pm produce stand Tour hours Weekends 9:30am, 11am, and 1pm. Weekdays by reservations 714-968-6588 Then Mid-March through October 31st., Monday through Friday 9am to 5:30pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am to 5pm. Open again Thanksgiving Weekend for Christmas Trees. The produce stand is open all year around seven days a week 9 am to 5 pm. 2006 strawberry prices: $12 per person per basket and free for 2 and under (but they don't get a basket). We also have CSA fundraiser available (UPDATED: July 06, 2008) Comments from a visitor on August 8, 2008: "I took my husband & son to Tanaka Farms for their "Pick-your-own- strawberries" we went on a guided wagon tour that included several stops to taste fresh picked produce from their farm, we then had 15 minutes to pick and eat as many strawberries as we could. Our 1 1/2 year old son LOVED it. Sure they were the most expensive basket of strawberries ($13 per basket) my husband or I had ever purchased, but those pictures were priceless !! They also offer a Watermelon tour which we intend to go do as well."
Riverside County
Cali-Dragon Farm - Follows organic practices, corn (sweet), pumpkins, 2308 Washington Street, Riverside, CA 92506. Phone: 626-589-7327. Fax: 909-948-5903. Email: ninh.andy@gmail.com. Open: 9am to 6pm from 09/20/2009 to 11/24/2009. Directions: take 60 FWY to 91 WEST. Exit Madison Avenue ; Turn left and go straight until the end of road which becomes Victoria Avenue , Turn left on Victoria. Turn right on Washington Street, We are on your right hand side after the house. Click here for a map and directions. Pumpkins (Mid September to November 2009; Corn Mid September; Sugar Cane (February 2010), zucchini (November 2009), cucumber (may-November 2010). We follow organic practices, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: September 19, 2009)
Temecula Berry Co - blueberries, Honey from hives on the farm, and prepicked produce, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, school tours39700 Cantrell Road, Temecula, CA 92591. Phone: 951 225-5552. Email: mike@temeculaberryco.com. Directions: From I-15 East on Rancho California Rd Left on Butterfield Stage Left on La Serena Right on Walcott. Straight on Walcott for 1 mile which turns into Cantrell Road or the farms entrance. From there just follow the signs. Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in May, June. Open: U - Pick blueberries on Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 6pm Farm fresh blueberries sold 7 days a week. May 10 to July 6. Payment: Cash, Check. Blueberries, Strawberries and honey sold 7 days per week. U-pick on Saturday and Sunday, or by appointment for your group. Drop by for a great time with the kids. See you soon--Temecula Berry Co. (ADDED: April 18, 2008)
Providence Farm - follows organic methods, cherries, grapes, pears, peaches, Honey from hives on the farm, and prepicked produce, gift shop, restrooms, picnic area, farm animals, birthday parties40376 Brookside Avenue, Cherry Valley, CA 92223. Phone: (951) 845-1210. Fax: (9510 845-1210. Email: mycherryfarm@yahoo.com. Directions: From Los Angeles, take either the 60 Freeway East or the 10 Freeway East. Exit off the 10 Freeway on Beaumont Avenue. Turn left and head north on Beaumont. Turn right on Brookside Avenue. From Palm Springs, take the 10 Freeway West and exit onto Highland Springs Blvd. Turn right and travel north on Highland Springs Blvd. until you reach the country club. Turn left onto Brookside Avenue. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, August, September. Open: Saturdays and Sundays, 10am to 5 pm. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. We are a small, family owned farm. We sustainably grow wall of our crops and never use any chemicals. Weeds are controlled with our sheep and pests with natural predation. We also harvest and sell Asian pears, Shiro plums, Meyer Lemons, English walnuts, Fuji apples, apricots, a variety of fresh and dry herbs, farm fresh eggs, honey, and smoking chips in our country stand. An admission fee applies during the cherry season. Hold your next private outdoor function at our farm. Below are examples of some of the events Providence Farm hosts. Parties - When you celebrate a birthday at Providence farm, you and your guests will enjoy a country ambience complete with hay rides for you and your guests and interaction with farm animals. Your reservation ($100 minimum) will provide you with use of two picnic tables for up to 15 guests for two hours. Additional guests $6 each. Extra options available include a clown, treat bags, fruit picking experience, and more. Please call or email to inquire. Special Events - Providence Farm provides you and your guests with a fun, relaxed country atmosphere. Providence Farm has hosted weddings, anniversary parties, and community barbecues, all customized. Let us know how we can help make your next event a memorable one.
Wohlgemuth's Cherry Orchard - ORGANIC cherries1106 E. Eleventh Street, Beaumont, CA, 92223. Phone: 951 845-1548 (No calls after 7pm Please). Email us at: cherrykol@msn.com. Usually June, 8 am to 4 pm, closed Mondays. Restrooms, sell strudel. Organic since the 1940's. Click here for Current Picking Conditions <
San Bernardino County
Greenspot Farms - Apples, other berries, pumpkins, Christmas trees-you choose and you cut, Christmas trees- you choose and we cut, Precut Christmas trees, Christmas wreaths and boughs, Mistletoe, Christmas-themed park, Santa appearances, Christmas decorations, saws provided, trees bagged, trees tied, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, train rides, corn maze, haunted corn maze, straw or hay bale maze, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo10133 Ward Wy., Mentone, CA 92359. Phone: 909 794-7653Directions: From I-10 in Redlands Take university off ramp go left to Lugonia right to Ward Wy. about 4 miles go right on Ward Wy. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in May, October, November, December. Open: Monday to Sunday 8 am to 6 pm. Haunted hayride last 2 weekends of October. Evenings only. Payment: Cash, Check.
Riley's Log Cabin Farm - U-Pick Apples, Raspberries, U-Press Cider, Hayrides, Bakery, BBX, Archery/Tomahawks, Living history & Hoedowns12201 South Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa, CA 92399. Phone: (909) 797-4061. Open: weekends from 10-4 from August through November (fall) and May-June (spring). We are closed on Mondays. See this page for hours and directions.
Rileys At Los Rios Rancho - follows organic methods, apples, chestnuts, pears, pumpkins, raspberries, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours39611 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909-797-1005. Fax: 909-797-2207. Email: info@losriosrancho.com. Directions: From the I-10 Freeway Exit Yucaipa Blvd and go north Make a Left onto Oak Glen Road Follow Oak Glen Road to Los Rios Rancho. Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October, November, December. Open: 7 Days a Week, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Raspberries: Late July through 1st frost Apples: August - November Pumpkins: Late September - end of October Chestnuts: November - December Pears: August - September. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. Supper Shows and Hoedowns Apple Butter Hoedown Currier and Ives Christmas Dinner and Dance Chuckwagon Supper Shows. Picking: Apples mid-August until they are picked out (call!); Berries - Available from mid-August until the end of September and Pumpkins - Available from the end of September through the end of October; U-Press Cider 12-4, (7 days a week). And, on weekends only: Horse-drawn Hayrides from 11-4, Little Seedling Ranch from 11 -4, Large cider press in operation from 11 - 2 and Packing House Tours at 1:00 pm. They have an annual Thanksgiving weekend Apple Butter Festival celebrates this fine old tradition, and we invite families to come up and share in it. We’ll have a hands-on demonstration of apple butter making the old-time (and slow!) way - outdoors in a big copper kettle; plus many more activities. There are restrooms, picnic, hiking, take credit cards, offer tours to groups, cider pressing, hay rides, petting zoo, and a great barbeque and gift shop. Also offer up public dinners with a live band that plays bluegrass. (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: October 05, 2009) A visitor writes on October 05, 2009: "I love this place. I am addicted to it. I have to go back every fall." (UPDATED: May 28, 2008)
Riley's Farm - Apples, corn (sweet), olallieberries, cherries, pears, peaches, pumpkins, strawberries, cucumbers, flowers, raspberries, zucchini, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, and prepicked produce, tractor-pulled hay rides12261 S. Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909-797-7534. Fax: 909-790-2552. Email us at: info@rileysfarm.com. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, August, September, October, November. Open: Monday to Saturday 10 am to 5 PM Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. Living History, Revolutionary War and Civil War field trips, Banquets, Dances, General Store. The cherries are at a different location/entrance; see this page. (UPDATED: August 09, 2009, from their website)
Roaring "L" Ranch - follows organic methods, apples, cherries, pears, peaches, restrooms, picnic area11124 Monte Vista Road, Phelan, CA 92371. Phone: 760 868-6826. Email: patlyons2002@yahoo.com. Directions: One block west of Johnson Road between Goss and Rancho. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, August, September, October. Open: Please call ahead for dates and time; you can email them to ask to be placed on their email update list. Cherries are usually ready by the first week in June; Asian Pears are available in September. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: August 29, 2008) (UPDATED: June 04, 2009, from their email)
Snow-Line Orchards - Follows organic practices, blackberries, raspberries (Autumn, yellow), Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours, events at your location (call for info)39400 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909 797-3415. Fax: 909 797-3485. Email: Scott: scotth4@earthlink.net or Linda: linda@snow-line.com. Open: Open: 9:00 to 5:00 seven days a week mid - August to December. Directions: From Palm Springs area, West on I-10. Exit Beaumont Avenue, go North about 9 miles. From LA area, East on I-10, exit Oak Glen Road, turn left on Oak Glen Road. Go about 5 miles. From Riverside & Orange County 91 Freeway to 60 Freeway, exit Beaumont Ave. Go North about 9 miles. Snow Line is about one mile East of Oak Glen Village. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard. Usually new berries ripen by Thursday and Friday. (UPDATED: August 11, 2009)
Star Ranch Winery - Grapes, Pistachios, and prepicked produce, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo35355 Highway 18, Lucerne Valley, CA 92356. Phone: 760-248-2228. Email us at: deborahpost@sisp.net. Directions: From Interstate 15, exit Bear Valley Road (Victorville) follow until road runs out then turn right (Highway 18) follow approximately 15 miles until the Big Bear turnoff (there will be a 76 Gas Station) go right on the turnoff (Still is hwy 18). Star Ranch is located exactly 5 miles ahead on the right. Look for a long chain link fence with a stone and iron entryway. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: Call for information Payment: Cash, only. We will begin to harvest pistachios on November 1st. Growers of Pistachios and Grapes. Feeders of pet geese, ducks, chickens, dogs and cats. Restaurant coming soon.
Stetson Creek Ranch - Follows organic practices, apples, 31 Hill Ranch Road (forest Service Road 1n86), Angelus Oaks, CA 92305. Phone: (909) 389-9410. Alternate Phone: (714) 315-1277. Email: patti@stetsoncreekranch.com. Open: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4; Other times for groups by appointment. Directions: From I-10, Redlands. Exit University Avenue and go North. At Lugonia Avenue go right. Lugonia becomes Highway 38 into the San Bernardino Mountains. 5 miles East of Angelus Oaks, look for Mile Marker 24.91. Our pull out is on the left (North) side of the highway. During our open hours we have a sign at Highway 38. From Big Bear, take highway 38 South. Passing Jenks Lake Road West, our turn out is the next one on the Right. Look for our sign during open hours. Click here for a map and directions. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. We follow organic practices, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. Various heirloom varieties of apples. This orchard was planted approximately 100 years ago and those magnificent old trees are still producing huge amounts of juicy delicious apples! We have Romes, Red Delicious, Winesap, McIntosh, Stayman and other varities! Visit our website for map and directions. We are 2.2 miles down a dirt Forest Service road and it is rocky. The Forest Service recommends high clearance vehicles for this road. (ADDED: August 31, 2009)
Willowbrook Apple Farm - Pick your own Stayman Winesap Apples. Press your own cider. 12099 S. Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA, 92399. Phone: 909-797-9484. Email: Willowbrookapple@aol.com. Open: Weekends October to November 12 10 am until dusk. Call for weekday morning picking. Sample apple butter. Enjoy a fresh dipped caramel apple. Browse fall home accents. Pet horse and chickens. Directions: Exit 10 Freeway at Live Oak/Oak Glen Road in Yucaipa. Head north on Oak Glen Road for 12 miles.
Wohlgemuth's Organic Cherry Orchard - ORGANIC, cherries1106 E. Eleventh Street, Beaumont, CA 92223. Phone: 951 845-1548 (No calls after 7pm Please). Email us at: cherrykol@msn.com.The cherry-picking season starts as early as the last week of April or as late as the last week of June. The season usually ends by the end of June. In 2005 they were finished as of July 2, 2005. BUT always check their website to find out what the picking conditions are! For a map or directions, click here! There are restrooms and a few benches under a tree. Varieties of cherries: Sweet Tartarian, Bing, Royal Ann, Windsor, Hardy Giant and Lambert.
San Diego County
Apple Lane Orchard - apples2641 Apple Lane, Julian, CA Phone: 760-765-2645
Bates Nut Farm - pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, straw or hay bale maze, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo15954 Woods Valley Road, Valley Center, CA 92082. Phone: 760-749-3333. Fax: 760-749-9499. Email us at: info@batesnutfarm.biz. Directions: We are located approximately 12 miles east of Escondido, CA. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in January, February, March, April, May, June, August, September, October, November, December. Open: Bates Nut Farm is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm except Thanksgiving and Christmas. A 40+ year tradition, the Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch is held October 1st -- 31st. Bates Nut Farm is open year round, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. We offer a wide selection of nuts, dried fruit, candy, homemade fudge and gourmet food items. We specialize in gift baskets and ship anywhere in the USA. You will enjoy our picnic area and farm zoo too! Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCa Road. In October, Family Fun on the Farm includes pony rides, bounce, face painting, BBQ, live music and more! Craft Fair October 1 & 2; Fine Arts Faire October 8 & 9; Scarecrow Contest on October 8; Costume Parade & Contest on October 29. Please check website for details and events throughout the year. A visitor writes (October 18, 2005): "I just wanted to RAVE about the fun my family had at the Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Festival. There were so many activities, food was great and the pumpkins, WOW, so many to choose from. I have a 3 year old son and he did not want to come home, we will definitely return next year. Thanks for taking the time to have this website available to people. It helped us."
Calico Ranch - Fruit stand and U-pick apples and pears4200 Highway 78, Julian, CA, 92036. Phone: 760-765-3620 or 858-586-0392 or 858-586-0522. Email: cmybliss@aol.com. Open: Fri-Sunday 9 am to 5pm, September to Oct. More than 100 types of apples and pears on 30 acres. Directions: Located on Hwy 78 at Calico Ranch Road between San Ysabel and Julian. Located in Spencer Valley, 3 miles from Julian.
Carlsbad Strawberry Co. - Camarosa Strawberries. PO Box 479, Carlsbad, CA, 92018-0479. Phone: Matt Neehaus at 760-519-4154. Email us at: m1h2ouse@yahoo.com. Directions: Located on Hwy 5 at Cannon Road in Carlsbad. Open: U-Pick Fields open April 17th through June this year, perhaps as late as July 4th weekend. Open 7 days a week, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm to the general public. 2006 prices: $5.00 small bucket or $10.00 large bucket Free Educational Field trips, $3.00 each (small bucket) for Students, Girls Scouts & Brownies, Boy Scouts & Cub Scouts, Boys & Girls Clubs, Church Groups, and other qualified large groups. No admission charge for accompanying adults who do not wish to pick strawberries..
. 9308 Westhill Lane, Lakeside, CA 92040. Phone: 619-379-7092. Email us at: lcamberos@cox.net. Click here for picking updates. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, December. Open: Monday to Friday, by appointment only. Payment: Cash, Check.
Heritage Farms - U-pick pumpkins , U-Pick strawberries, farm market21345 San Pasqual Road, Escondido, CA. Phone: (760) 746-8822. Open: call for picking hours. Offers customers fresh organic produce, corn maze (in the Fall), petting corral, tortoise races, picnic area.
Julian Mining Company - follows organic methods, corn (sweet), olallieberries, pumpkins, raspberries, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises)4444 Orchard Land & Hwy 78, Julian , CA 92036. Phone: 909 499 1611. Email: julianminingcompany@aol.com. Directions: From San Diego take 78 East toward Julian. We are a located 3 miles east of Julian on Left hand side btw Orfila Winery and Spencer Valley School. Click here for a map and directions. Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October. Open: Weekends throughout the fall and Christmas season; Call for times and availability 909 499 1611. Raspberries and Olallieberries July-October, Pumpkins October-November, U-Press Apple Cider September 15 pm to December 1, Corn June-October. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. Julian Mining Company also offers various living history tours and field trips such as the California Gold Rush, Civil War Adventure, Native American tour, and Creation Science tours. For those that 'drop by' a bag of mining rough can be purchased and used at the extensive sluice box, Gold Panning trough, or 'rockers' to reveal gold and other semi-precious gems and minerals. Other activities include tomahawk throwing and archery.
Lake Sutherland Farms - U-pick blackberries and raspberries20625 Sutherland Dam Road, Ramona, CA, 92065. Phone: 760-788-4360. Email: tsunami105@aol.com. Open: Thurs, Friday, Saturday and Sun; Berry picking season is the month of August. Directions: Take Hwy 78 5 miles east of Ramona on the way to Julian. At intersection of Hwy 78 and Sutherland Dam Road, follow the signs that indicate "Lake Sutherland". (UPDATED: July 11, 2009)
MJ Ranch - Apples and Pears 1070 Farmers Road, Julian, CA, 92036. Phone: 760-765-2423. Many varieties of both apples and pears. No pesticides used on our Apples & Pears. Open: every Saturday and Sunday from 10-5, from Sept.10 until September 25. Directions. Prices: no admission charge. We provide 1 peck bags (roughly about ten pounds) for your fruit at $10.00 a bag (2005 prices) with no charge for entering or picking in the orchard.
Mountain Valley Ranch Pumpkin Patch - Christmas trees, Pumpkins, corn maze, petting zoo, hayrides, haunted house842 Hwy 78, Ramona, CA. Phone: 760-788-8703. Petting zoo with birds, calves, pigs and ponies. Large corn maze and take a hayride tour of the ranch. Open

Raven Hill Orchard- apples (many different varieties)1284 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian, CA 92036. Phone: (760) 765-2431. Open: . usually mid-August through October, possibly November, 7 days/week, 9am to 5pm. Email: ulsterboyeire@aol.com . A visitor writes on April 23, 2009: "I thought it was great. It's very casual, the owner is very friendly, and if there isn't a crowd, he'll give you a personal tour of the orchard. They do also sometimes sell fresh-squeezed apple cider. They appear to take cash only. Very friendly. The owner (Patrick Brady) told me that he is raising the trees organically. He is a sculpture artist originally from Ireland, and he has some of his work displayed at the entrance of the orchard. " (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: April 23, 2009)
Lake Sutherland Farms - blackberries20625 Sutherland Dam Road, Ramona, CA. Phone: 760-788-9499. They also have a roadside stand with blackberries, U-pick, farm tours, black berries, blue berries, soaps & preserves, gifts/crafts.

Summer's Past Farm - herbs, pumpkin patch, corn maze, herbal soapmaking15602 Old Hwy 80, Flinn Springs, CA, 92021. Phone: (619) 390-1523. A visitor writes: "There is a lot to do for children like making a fairy garden, corn mazes, sweet pea mazes. There is also herb paper making, herb soap making, herbal oil, vinegar, and more in there class schedule, Very child friendly, coffee bar with pastries, fun, touristy, and wonderful animals everywhere. A shop for those who want to buy the harvested goodies.. "
Victoria's Garden - Strawberries, Watermelons, Pumpkins, Hay Rides, Maze13120 Willow Road, Lakeside, CA 92040. Phone: (619) 390-9571. U-Pick Strawberries and Barnyard Animals, Straw Play Area, Bounce Jump, Straw Horses, Picnic Areas, Pony Rides, Giant Slide, Farm Stand & Nursery. Open: 7 days a week, 10 am to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday 10 am to 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Wholesome Heritage Farms Pumpkin Patch - U-pick strawberries, follows organic methods, 21345 San Pasqual Road, Escondido, CA. Phone: 760-746-8822. Open year-round. Fresh organic produce, U-pick strawberries, corn stock maze (in the Fall), petting corral, tortoise races, picnic area. School and group tours welcome. $5 per person and includes a pumpkin. Open through October 31, noon-6 pm.
Weidners' Gardens - U-pick operation for flowers, plants, bulbs695 Normandy Road, Encinitas, CA, 92024. Phone: 760-436-2194 or 760-436-3681. Email: staff@weidners.com. Open: Monday to Sunday 9:30 - 5. Closed Tuesday. Winter . Open: 9:30-4:30. Workshops, farm tour, garden/nursery tour, ag gifts/crafts. Directions: I-5 to Leucadia Blvd. Exit, then east to Notmandy Rd at Piraeus St.
San Luis Obispo County
Avila Valley Barn - Apples, nectarines, olallieberries, peaches, pumpkins, Other fruit or veg, Precut Christmas trees, Christmas wreaths and boughs, Mistletoe, Christmas decorations, trees tied, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, straw or hay bale maze, and prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, petting zoo560 Avila Valley Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93402. Phone: 805-595-2810. Fax: 805-595-2810. Email us at: customer_support@avilavalleybarn.com. Directions: Coming north or south on Hwy 101 take the Avila Valley Drive exit and go west. Avila Valley Barn is located just past Ontario Rd on the right side. Parking available on property. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: seasonally from May through December, 9 am to 6 pm. Click here for picking updates. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. We also grow and sell the following fruit: olallieberries, cherries, raspberries, strawberries, apricots, peaches, white peaches, nectarines, white nectarines, apriums, pluots, pears, gravenstein apples, gala apples, golden delicious apples, mutsu apples, jonagold apples, braeburn apples, fuji apples, empire apples, granny smith apples, laura red apples. We also grow and sell the following vegetables: tomatoes, sweet onions, summer squash, green beans, and winter squash. Anything we don't grow on our farms, we get from neighboring farms including broccoli, cauliflower, lettuces, potatoes, peppers, garlic, green onions, eggplant, green and red cabbages, carrots, leeks, brussel sprouts, fresh herbs, cilantro, parsley, and basil.Christmas tree varieties:PreCut varieties: Douglas Fir, Noble Fir. A visitor writes: Apple picking starts in September and pumpkins in October. The farm also offers a market, hay-bale maze, hot roasted corn harvested from its fields, and fresh-baked pies, including olallieberry and pumpkin pie. You can feed the goats, pigs, cow, ponies, ostrich, peacocks, turtle, etc... Hayrides for fruit picking and pumpkins too. A haybale maze for the little ones and one for the adults. Christmas trees already cut for sale. Nice clean restrooms. Open: They sell BBQ'd corn, fresh apple cider and great coffee.. A visitor writes on March 07, 2009: "While we haven't been recently, it's a real gem of the Central Coast. The staff is so friendly and helpful. The produce is wonderful! "
Blue Sky Gardens - ORGANIC, U-Pick blackberries, Pumpkin Patch with haunted house and corn maze, organic u-pick summer vegetables19505 Walnut Ave (Garden Farms), Atascadero, CA 93422. Phone: 805-438-5801. Email: bluesky@calinet.com. Blackberries in June. Halloween activities in October. Vegetables, June through October. Petting zoo with farm animals, fresh range eggs.
Cal Poly Fruit and Crops - apples, apricots, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, olallieberries, pears, peaches, pumpkins, raspberriesCalifornia Polytechnic State University Use the Highland Drive entance off of Hwy 1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407. Phone: 805-756-2224. Email: orchardmanager@calpolyfruitandcrops.com. Directions: From Hwy 101 in San Luis Obispo, Take Highway 1 north toward Morro Bay, Right on Highland Drive, Follow the signs to the designated U-Pick area, Parking is free on weekends. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available all year. Open: Saturdays 10am to 1pm Occasionally Wednesdays 3pm to 5pm Picking is available when the crops are ready. Please click here for for information on what's in season. Payment: Cash, Check. We have Satsuma Tangerines in the Winter months and Various Navel Oranges, blood oranges and other citrus for most of the year. We also have many varieties of prepicked avocados that change throughout the year.
Happy Grapes - U-Pick operation Thompson Grapes13005 Salinas Road, Atascadero, CA, 93422. Phone: 805-462-0347. Email: RevPClaire@aol.com. Open: Sept/October weekends. Call first. Small weddings on site. Directions: From Paso Robles: Take Hwy 101 South to Santa Barbara Rd exit, turn left (west) on Santa Barbara. Right on El Camino Real, left on Santa Clara Road, left on Salinas Road.
Hollyhock Farms - ORGANIC, U-pick. Veggies, fruits and flowers200 Hollyhock Lane Templeton, CA, 93465. Phone: 805-239-4713. Email: hollyhoc@calinet.com. Open: All year for farm stay; June- December for crops and flowers. Observe a fully functioning organic farm. Hands-on farm experience if desired. Wine tasting. Farm stay accommodates 2 people with option to have children camp on front lawn. Breakfast included in cottage rental. Car shows, wine festival. Small number of rare and unusual farm animals. Directions: Highway 101 to Templeton. Exit on Vineyard. Proceed east and take El Pomar Road to Hollyhock Lane (approximately 4 miles). Turn left onto Hollyhock Lane and drive about one mile.
Jack Creek Farms - Apples, beans, carrots, cucumbers, flowers, olallieberries, plums, pumpkins, tomatoes6 miles West of 101 on Highway 46 West (State Route Marker 16) West of Paso Robles, CA, Templeton, CA 93465. Phone: Phone: 805-238-3799. Email us at: info@jackcreekfarms.com . Directions: Our farm is in rural Templeton, California. We are located approximately 6 miles west of Highway 101 on Highway 46 West - midway between Paso Robles and Cambria. Our gate is at Highway marker 16. Click here for a map to our farm. We are open July, August, September, October, November. And our hours are: We are open seasonally July through early November. Please check our website for dates and hours of operation. Our 5th generation family farm is nestled in the coastal foothills of central California near the historic communities of Templeton and Paso Robles. We take great pride in that we grow all of the produce we offer at our farm store. We have demonstration gardens, an antique apple path and offer educational tours. We also have farm animals on site and an antique tractor display. Visit our recently planted u-pick olallieberry patch. U-pick old-fashioned flower varieties throughout the summer and u-pick pumpkin patch in the fall. Also u-pick heirloom apples, plums and some summer vegetables in season. We are pleased to offer you fresh and wholesome foods, as well as taste of country each time you stop by. Please check out our website for hours of operation and map.
McCall Farm B&B - apples, avocados, peppers, plums, tomatoes, pumpkins6250 Santa Rosa Creek Road, Cambria, CA. Phone: 805-927-3140. Apples: mid August through October, Avocados: Year round, Peppers: mid August through October, Plums: July, Tomatoes: mid August through October, Oranges: Year round, Pumpkins. Email: mccallfarm@earthlink.net.
Santa Barbara County
Ballard Apple Farm and Seein' Spots Miniature Donkeys - Follows organic practices, apples, apricots, Fresh eggs, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms, picnic area, pony rides, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours2599 Baseline Avenue, Solvang, CA 93463. Phone: 805-688-2275. Email: linda@seeinspotsfarm.com. Open: We are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 4:00 all year long. Directions: We are located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley in beautiful Ballard. From highway 154 take the Ballard turnoff and follow Baseline Avenue about three miles. From Solvang going toward Santa Ynez turn left on Rufugio Road and left again on Baseline Avenue and we are about a half mile down on the right. You will see a red sign with donkeys out front. Drive up to the barn and park. Apricots: July Apples: September through December Eggs: All year long Our Miniature Donkey Petting Zoo and Kiddie Rides are available all year and we always have babies to play with!. We follow organic practices, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check. We are a family run miniature farm and we love to share our animals. We have Kiddie Rides for small children on our miniature donkeys and donkey hugs are always available to everyone!. (ADDED: October 12, 2009)
Quacken Farms - follows organic practices, pumpkins, walnuts, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, pony rides, farm animals2921 Ontiveros Road, Santa Ynez, CA 93460. Phone: 805-688-3613. Email: info@quackenfarms.com. Directions: Driving North from Santa Barbara, take Highway 154 North to Roblar. Turn left or West on Roblar, in a 1/4 mile at the fork in the road, veer left onto Ontiveros. We are 1/4 mile down on the right. Driving South from Santa Maria, take Highway 154 South to Roblar. Turn right or West on Roblar, in a 1/4 mile at the fork in the road, veer left onto Ontiveros. We are 1/4 mile down on the right. Click here for a map and directions. Crops are usually available in September, October, November. Open: Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, please check our website for updated hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Opening September 27th through November. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. Fun for the whole family! We also offer a Toddlers Play Area and Country Store. Organically grown fresh fruits and vegetables: apples, walnuts, lettuce, carrots, squash, zucchini, cucumbers, radishes. Fresh flowers in season. (ADDED: September 08, 2008)
Restoration Oaks Farm - Blueberries1980 US Highway 101, Gaviota, CA. Phone: 805-686-5718. Alternate phone: 805-683-2143. Email: cjacks@restorationoaksranch.com. Open: Call for availability and hours. Directions: Email, or call or see this page. A visitor writes on May 26, 2009: " I've been driving by and seeing their huge Pick Your Own Blueberries sign for months but I have not gone there yet. I just called to confirm they are open and my daughter and I plan to go this weekend and pick blueberries" (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: May 26, 2009)
Ventura County
Pete's Pumpkin Patch - corn (sweet), herbs/spices, melons, pumpkins, school toursExit Off 101 Freeway At Central Avenue, Camarillo, CA 93010. Phone: 805-207-3363. Alternate Phone: 805-983-8589. Fax: 805-988-9452. Open: Open 7 days a week; 9am to Dark. Directions: Exit 101 freeway at Central Avenue look North/East to the Hillside. Can't miss us. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. (ADDED: September 29, 2009)
Underwood Family Farms is a pick-your-own grower of a wide variety of fresh vegetables and fruits in Ventura County, California. They offer a wide variety of services and activities tailored for the entire family, including pick-your-own produce, birthday parties at their Farm Animal Center, school tours, gift baskets (shipped anywhere in the U.S.), and the Fall Harvest Festival in October. You can also visit them at one of their Farm Markets, located in Somis or at Tierra Rejada in Moorpark, where you can purchase their field-fresh produce and say hi to their farm animals. Or visit them at one of the 12 Certified Farmers' Markets that they participate in throughout the week. NOTE: There is admission fee to pick, so be sure you read this page on Underwood's website.
Underwood Family Farms - Somis5696 Los Angeles Avenue Somis, CA 93066Phone: 805-386-4660Fax: 805-386-3994-6037Farm Market, Animal Center, Gift Baskets, Specialty Produce
Underwood Family Farms - Moorpark (Tierra Rejada)3370 Sunset Valley Road (Formerly Moorpark Road)Moorpark, Ca 93066Phone: 805-529-3690Fax: 805-529Farm Market, Animal Center, Pick Your Own Produce, Plant Center, Fall Harvest Festival (September 27-October 31), Fall Festival Craft Fair (September 27 & 28), Wagon Rides, Birthday Parties, Educational Tours
Fall Harvest Festival at Tierra Rejada Family Farms, .Pick-your-own pumpkin in our HUGE pumpkin patch, Clydesdale-drawn hay rides, antique and new farm equipment and machinery displays, fun photo ops, GIANT PUMPKIN display, and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables. Arts & Crafts, Baby animal petting and grooming corral, Pony rides.

Farmers Markets, Farm Stands and Farmer's Markets (NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)
San Bernardino County
Diamond I Ranch - Fresh local eggs, Fresh eggs14715 Peyton Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709. Phone: 909-268-9876. Email: jenbi10@aol.com. Open: 8:00am to 7:00pm; but call for appointment. Directions: Chino Hills on Peyton Dr between Euclyptus and Morning field. Payment: Cash, only. Free Range Organic Eggs Blue, Green Brown and White gathered daily from happy chickens. Call for an appointment to pick up your beautiful eggs. (ADDED: July 27, 2009)
Snow-Line Orchards - Follows organic practices, Baked goods, Preserves, jams, jellies, apples, blackberries, chestnuts, raspberries (Autumn, red), raspberries (Autumn, yellow), tomatoes, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours, events at your location (call for info)39400 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen, CA 92399. Phone: 909 797-3415. Fax: 909 797-3485. Email: scott@snow-line.com or linda@snow-line.com. Open: Open: 9:00 to 5:00 seven days a week mid - August to December. Directions: Palm Springs area, West on I-10. Exit Beaumont Avenue, go North about 9 miles. From LA area, East on I-10, exit Oak Glen Road, turn left on Oak Glen Road. Go about 5 miles. From Riverside & Orange County 91 Freeway to 60 Freeway, exit Beaumont Ave. Go North about 9 miles. Snow Line is about one mile East of Oak Glen Village. We follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard. Antique shop. Apple cider mini donuts. (UPDATED: August 11, 2009)
Ventura County
Pete's Pumpkin Patch - Wide variety of seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables, school toursExit Off 101 Freeway At Central Avenue, Camarillo, CA 93010. Phone: 805-207-3363. Alternate Phone: 805-983-8589. Fax: 805-988-9452. Open: Open 7 days a week; 9am to Dark. Directions: Exit 101 freeway at Central Avenue look North/East to the Hillside. Can't miss us. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. (ADDED: September 29, 2009)

Farm Venues for Events
Ventura County
The Painted Pony Farm - petting zoo, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, events at your location (call for info)15315 Ojai Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060. Phone: 805-525-9820. Email: paintedponyfarm @gmail.com. Open: March 15 pm to October 31 Monday to Friday 10 am 2 pm Reservation are a must October open every Saturday 10 am to 4. Directions: Located 6 miles from Santa Paula and 9 miles from Ojai on highway 150. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check. (ADDED: September 01, 2009)