The One Arkansas Family Farm You Simply Have To Visit
By Carol Ann Carson|Published May 13, 2018
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
There’s no question that farmers are a vital part to Arkansas’ success as a state. One Arkansas farm in particular deserves some recognition for its recent achievements. From the day-to-day cattle and hay operations to creating the perfect family day trip, the Holly Springs Homestead is an Arkansas gem.
The Alstons and their farm, the Holly Springs Homestead, were the most recent winners of the Arkansas Farm Family of the Year. The prestigious award is the longest-running farm family recognition program in the nation.
The Alstons have upheld a long tradition of award-winning farming for over 100 years.
The award may be recent but the Alstons are no spring chickens when it comes to farming. The farm originally began back in 1897 and has been operated by the same family for four generations. Over the century, the farm earned the distinction of being one the first dairy operations in the county as well as one of the first to raise broiler chickens.
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There are three main ways to enjoy the farm's splendor. There's the Farm Stand which is open year-round.
The Market also carries heirloom seeds too so you can start your own mini-farm at home. Perhaps the best part is that they have fresh baked goods and coffee, which are essentials to any good shopping experience.
You can also take advantage of the farm's pick-you-own options in spring and summer.
Strawberry season is currently underway during the month of May. Holly Springs Homestead offers a unique pick-your-own salad in summer. From June through August, you can pick lettuce, cherry tomatoes, onions, and carrots to make the freshest salad ever.
No autumn would be complete without a visit to Holly Springs Homestead.
"Christmas on the Farm" includes caroling hayrides, Fraser Fir tree yard, and a kids winter wonderland. Stop by the Farm Stand for fresh garlands and wreaths or head to the Market for ornaments and gifts.
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No matter the season or what activity you plan on doing, the Holly Springs Homestead is the perfect farm for a family outing.
The farm is located at 217 Polk 184 Rd., Mena, AR 71953. For details like hours and what's available, visit their website.
In addition to these seasonal events, Holly Springs Homestead also hosts workshops and day camps. To stay up-to-date on these events, follow their Facebook Page.
What’s your favorite thing to do at Holly Springs? Share with us in the comments below!
For additional berry picking locations, you should peruse this list of pick-your-own farms.
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