Horse-Drawn Hayrides In Mercer County This Weekend

The horses will be wearing bells this Saturday, Nov. 25, at Howell Living History Farm as they provide scenic hayrides through the heart of Pleasant Valley, followed by a wreath and sleigh bell sale.

Rides will run from 10:30 a.m. through 3 p.m., with tickets given to the first 300 visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no charge for the rides. Donations of non-perishable food items for local food banks are encouraged.

The Friends of Howell Farm will sell sleigh bells throughout the day to benefit the farm's restoration projects.
Harness maker Mervin Martin, who makes the harnesses and sleigh bells worn by the farm's workhorses mad the brass- and nickel-plated bells, which will be sold in straps of six, 12 and 20.

Reproduction cast bells, bell door ringers and bell ornaments will also be available. Visitors will also be able to enjoy tours of the recently renovated farmhouse.

Other holiday items featured in the gift shop include fresh evergreen wreaths and door hangings; baskets of the farm's flour, honey and maple syrup; and handmade items sewn by the Pleasant Valley Stitchers Guild.

Howell Farm is owned by the County of Mercer and maintained by the Mercer County Park Commission. It is located on Valley Road, just off Route 29, in Hopewell Township. The GPS address is 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell Township, NJ 08530.

For more information, call the farm office at 609-737-3299 or visit www.howellfarm.org or www.mercercountyparks.org.

The attached image was provided: Horse-drawn hayrides take visitors throughout Pleasant Valley at Howell Living History Farm.