Vernon’s Valley Falls Farm: Fun for All Ages

The Valley Falls Heritage Center, located at 345 Valley Falls Road in Vernon, will be open three more Sundays before closing for the season: 1-4 pm August 27; 12-3 pm September 10 (in conjunction with Artists Day); and 1-3 pm September 24 (in conjunction with the Friends of Valley Falls annual meeting). The Heritage Center is part of an eight-acre farm that includes a historic stable, dairy barn, root cellar and three additional unique buildings. Interpretive information panels, tools and household items tell the story of the farm, its former owners and the Valley Falls area. Most items on display are original to the property, including sleds, bells, farm equipment, and even a vintage juke box. Park in the lot where the red dairy barn is located or at Valley Falls Park and walk the short hillside path to the red barn.

The Sept. 10 Artists Day, held 12-3 pm, is always a popular event attracting artists of all ages and experience. Local artists select various vistas at Valley Falls Farm and paint outdoors in the “Plein Air” method. Artists will begin setting up in the morning and the the public is welcome to arrive around noon. Enjoy an afternoon at the farm, watching the artists at work, asking them questions, or bring a picnic lunch and enjoy what is often called the most scenic spot in Vernon. Finished paintings will be for sale, as well as other works by the artists. Visitors can listen to live music performed from the red barn by “Jeannie and Friends, sit in on a 2 pm talk by Bolton artist Dorothy Hall, and tour the new Heritage Center. Free admission; on Artists Day there will be limited parking in the lot where the Red Barn is located. Parking also available at Valley Falls Park and walking the short path to the red barn. Founded in 1972, the Friends of Valley Falls, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving history and nature. For additional events or membership information, please visit www.friendsofvalleyfalls.org.