Fort Wayne, Indiana, is buzzing with excitement as the Kuehnert Dairy Fall Festival opens its gates for the 13th season, offering families a mix of farm fun and autumn traditions. Running from September 12 through October 26, this sixth-generation dairy farm event features nearly 40 attractions, including a corn maze with a fresh Milk Craft theme, hayrides, and bonfires that capture the essence of fall.
Festival Highlights and Attractions
Visitors flock to the Kuehnert Dairy Farm each year for its blend of education and entertainment. The festival turns the working dairy farm into a playground for all ages, where people can learn about milk production while enjoying seasonal activities. This year, the Milk Craft theme ties into the farm’s heritage, showcasing creative designs in the massive corn maze that challenge and delight guests.
Families can explore straw bales, meet farm animals up close, and join in games that promote teamwork and laughter. The event emphasizes community bonds, with many returning for the cozy evenings around glowing bonfires. Farm owner Sara Kuehnert shares that the goal is simple: create lasting memories that draw people back season after season.
One standout feature is the opportunity to see cows in action, right at the heart of the attractions. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between urban life and farming realities, making it both fun and informative for kids and adults alike.
Ticket Details and Planning Tips
Admission costs $15 per person, covering access to all attractions without extra fees. Children 2 and under enter for free, making it budget-friendly for young families. Tickets are available in advance and are nonrefundable, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
The festival operates on weekends only, with specific hours to fit different schedules:
- Fridays: 6 PM to 9 PM
- Saturdays: 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sundays: 12 PM to 5 PM
To make the most of your visit, arrive early on Saturdays for fewer crowds, or choose evenings for a magical atmosphere with bonfires and sunset views. Weather can play a role, so check forecasts and dress in layers for those crisp Indiana fall days.
Community Impact and Farm Legacy
The Kuehnert family has run this dairy farm for 125 years, and the fall festival serves as a way to share their passion with the public. Sara Kuehnert notes the overwhelming support from the Fort Wayne community, with some attendees marking their 13th visit this year. This loyalty brings joy to the family and highlights the event’s role in fostering local pride.
Beyond entertainment, the festival educates on sustainable farming practices. Guests learn how dairy operations contribute to the local economy and food supply. Recent additions, like the on-site Milk House offering fresh dairy products, tie into broader trends in agritourism across Indiana.
In a time when family outings are more valued than ever, events like this provide a break from digital screens. They encourage outdoor play and real-world connections, aligning with growing interest in farm-to-table experiences.
Recent surveys show that agritourism events in the Midwest have seen a 15% attendance increase over the past two years, driven by families seeking authentic experiences. The Kuehnert festival fits this trend perfectly, blending tradition with modern appeal.
What to Expect This Season
This year’s Milk Craft theme adds a creative twist to the corn maze, inspiring visitors to think about dairy innovation. The design incorporates elements of milk production and crafting, making navigation both educational and engaging.
Other attractions include pumpkin painting, an obstacle course, and hayrides that tour the farm’s scenic fields. Food options feature local treats, from roasted marshmallows to fresh milk-based snacks.
Here’s a quick look at key festival facts in a table for easy reference:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | September 12 to October 26, weekends only |
| Admission | $15 per person; free for kids 2 and under |
| Main Theme | Milk Craft (corn maze) |
| Attractions | Nearly 40, including hayrides, bonfires, animal encounters |
| Location | Kuehnert Dairy Farm, near Fort Wayne, Indiana |
Looking Ahead and Visitor Stories
As the festival kicks off, early reports show strong turnout, with families praising the welcoming vibe. One visitor shared how the event has become their annual tradition, complete with photos from past years. This sense of continuity strengthens community ties in Fort Wayne.
With fall in full swing, similar events across Indiana are ramping up, like harvest festivals in nearby counties. The Kuehnert event stands out for its dairy focus, setting it apart in a crowded calendar of autumn activities.
Share your own festival experiences in the comments below, or spread the word to friends planning a family outing. Your stories could inspire others to join in the fun and support local farms.
