Are you ready for a "visit" to check out the FUN at Farmin' Fun Day Camp? We have so much to show you.
We start our morning routine by deciding which team will help with the flag ceremony. This particular day the FIT campers were chosen by the counselors.
Next we checked out the garden!
Our FIT (Farmers in Training) help us maintain the gardens and are responsible for harvesting and selling vegetables at the Farmers' Market. As campers we assist with watering the garden, tending to the raised beds and transplanting seedlings. We will also bring home a transplanted seeding so we can care for our new plant at home. Don't worry, we will have information on how to care for our new plant!
Since Salomon Farm Park is an active FARM....we are always growing and changing! As we wander around the park we see the U Pick operation....
Our gorgeous Sunflowers.....
Lots of colors of Zinnias....
And our newest adventure....Dahlias! Our flower operation U-Pick is available at the Wednesday Farmers' Market time slot and on select other dates seasonally!
We rely on many groups to make our crops and gardens possible.
Perhaps some day you will want to volunteer at Salomon and be part of the gardening crew. We can always use volunteers. .
While you are "touring the farm", be sure to notice the Blacksmith shop. During special events the building is open for you to check out this exciting hobby. Classes are also available. Check out our Current Fun Times to learn more.
Want to visit the chickens? Depending on the weather you may see our chickens outside or they may stay inside the coop!
Next stop is a visit to see our pygmy goats...
The pygmy goats are very friendly. We love interacting with them!
We can't forget the sheep....
... our two Highland Cows....
or giving some attention to our miniature horse!
In the off season when our campers are not here to help with chores....we rely on volunteers and paid staff to come and care for our animals. Do not worry.....the animals miss you....so be sure to stop in to say "hi" when you can!
After the creek walk, we walk by the "old barn" which was built in 1871. Did you know you can rent the old barn for your next private event? You can also visit the old barn during one of our special events, come on a Wednesday to the Farmer's Market or enjoy it during camp!
We may also pass by the Old Homestead. The 2024 staff posed for a staff photo on the steps!
Did you know that the restored Salomon Farm Homestead was officially opened for rentals and public events in 2019?
The Salomon family immigrated from Lahde, Westfalen, Prussia in 1871 and settled where Salomon Farm Park sits today. Many of the projects on this working farm have been completely community funded and supported, including the restoration of the Homestead. Financial support for this project was provided by generous private donors, foundations, and grants. Furnishings are all circa 1930’s family heirlooms gifted to the park from citizens in Fort Wayne and surrounding counties. These heirlooms represent Salomon Farm Park’s and the Parks and Recreation Department’s commitment to protecting and celebrating Indiana heritage.
Depending on our week, we may go on a scavenger hunt and end up criss crossing the entire farm. While doing this we see our animals and have a chance for a brief visit before heading on to our next clue.
Are you curious about what the FIT do while at camp?
- Our FIT (Farmers in Training) kids assist with our honey bees. Don't worry, we wear protective suits. We will learn a lot of facts about the honey bees including the following:
- Did you know each worker bee works her entire life, from 28 to 35 days only to make just one-twelfth of one teaspoon of honey!
- Bees must fly 55,000 miles and visit 2 million flowers to make one pound of honey.
- You can experience the exciting and intricate world of bees up close and personal in a controlled and protective environment if you sign up for our FIT program!
As a "FIT" we enjoy special projects around the Farm, help with the Farmers' Market on Wednesdays, enjoy campfires and special activities throughout the week and much more.
Off to see our miniature pigs next! This particular hot summer day that are just enjoying laying low and resting....just like we will be doing when we get home!
The farm chores we do each day are divided up so they are appropriate for our age. We just love the animals as you can clearly see...and our "chores" are just part of the FUN! Are you wondering what animals we will have for 2025? We just talked to Farmer Larry and he told us we will have the following: 11 Chickens, 3 miniature pigs, 8 goats, 3 sheep, 1 miniature horse, 4-8 baby chicks, 2 rabbits and maybe a surprise or two!
Everyday we gather for our lunch break, games, and some time out of the sun. Luckily we have some great shade trees just for this time of day!
Once a week our bubbly fun begins with a wagon ride to Becketts Run for a creek walk led by camp counselors. Campers, don’t forget to ask your counselor about Farmer Salomon and the Legend of the Broken Bridge!
Next up....a wagon ride back to camp.....
before BUBBLE FUN! Don’t worry parents your children will come home clean, dry, and smelling fresh!”
Ever wanted to go fishing? How about learning to cast? On this day we headed out to the Pond to practice our skills and caught some fish. Don't worry- we won't be bringing any home! This was catch and release only!
On certain days we check out and refine our craft skills! We concentrate on learning traditional hand arts which could include: working with wool, dipping candles, small weaving projects or possibly sewing.
Or maybe sometime contemplating our next project!
We make so many new friends....and are so happy to be outside enjoying farm life!
Camp is so much fun it is hard to say, "good bye"! Don't forget to sign up NEXT SPRING (Registration for Farm Camp in 2025 will start in March) so you won't miss any of the FUN! Not only will all of our animals be waiting for you....we will too!!
