Despite a cool, wet morning, it was an exciting time at Smith’s Apple Farm as new owners Chloe and Cameron welcomed visitors to the official opening of the Pumpkin(fest) Patch.
The young couple recently purchased the property to carry on the tradition of Steve Smith, original owner and designer of Smith’s Apple Farm.
“Cameron asked if I would like to go apple picking one day,” said Chloe. “When we arrived at Smith’s Apple Farm, we saw a ‘for sale’ sign. We are both outdoor types and, after talking it over and with the support of our families, we decided to take a leap of faith and bought the property. As a teacher, I am big on learning and we have been learning everything about apples. It’s been amazing!”
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Among the visitors were Doug and Louise Court, original growers at the annual Pumpkinfest giant vegetable weigh-on held each year in Port Elgin. The Court family has won several awards for their growing expertise of giant vegetables.
“We’re incredibly excited to embrace this journey, sharing our passion for community, farming, and the simple joy that a perfectly crisp apple can bring,” said Chloe.
She went on to add that they are also excited about becoming involved in community projects such as Pumpkinfest and being the ‘Official Pumpkin Patch’. “We will be open from May 24th to Hallowe’en celebrations. We are also going to carry on the traditions of the corn maze and playground.”
According to the couple, there will be no name change from Smith’s Apples. “We understand the history and want to not only retain it but also grow it.”
The couple says that it is only with the support of their families that they have been able to obtain the opportunity to realize a family dream. “We wanted a place where our families and relatives could come together in a happy place and a place that would foster that same feeling for the community.”
