Ward's Berry Farm - A Local Gem
There's a really special spot in Sharon, Massachusetts, that many folks have come to know and love over the years. It's a family place, a farm, and it brings people a chance to connect with where their food comes from, offering a pleasant escape from the everyday. This delightful spot is Ward's Berry Farm, a place where the simple joys of fresh produce and outdoor fun come together, so it's almost like a little piece of country charm right in town.
For decades now, this farm has been a go-to for families looking for fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, and honestly, a whole lot more. It's a place where you can spend a happy afternoon, maybe picking your own berries, or just grabbing some lovely produce for your dinner table. The people who look after Ward's Berry Farm have put a lot of heart into it, making sure everyone feels welcome and finds something to smile about, you know?
If you've been wondering about this charming destination, or perhaps you're planning a visit, you're in the right spot. We're going to talk all about what makes Ward's Berry Farm such a beloved part of the community, from its beginnings to all the good things you can find and do there. It's pretty cool, really, how much they offer, and it's certainly a place worth getting to know better.
Table of Contents
- What's the Story Behind Ward's Berry Farm?
- What Can You Do at Ward's Berry Farm?
- What Delicious Treats Are at Ward's Berry Farm?
- How Does Ward's Berry Farm Care for the Earth?
- Ready to Visit Ward's Berry Farm?
What's the Story Behind Ward's Berry Farm?
Every special place has a tale to tell, and Ward's Berry Farm is no different. It's not just a farm; it's a story of family, growth, and a true connection to the land. You see, the ground where the farm sits has been used for growing things for a very, very long time, even before the 1930s, which is pretty amazing when you think about it. But the farm as we know it today, with all its wonderful offerings, really got its start in a more recent time, when some folks decided to take a big step.
The Beginning of Ward's Berry Farm
Ward's Berry Farm officially came to be in 1982. This was when the Ward family decided to take their love for growing things, which had been a gardening hobby for a while, and turn it into a full-scale farming operation. It was a big step, moving from just a family pastime to a complete business that serves the whole community. Since that time, two brothers, Jim and Bob Ward, have been the ones really looking after the farm. They've been there since 1982, putting in the effort to make sure everything runs smoothly and that people get the very best fresh-picked fruits and vegetables. It's quite a commitment, running a place like this for so many years, and it shows in the quality of what they offer. Their dedication, you know, has really helped the farm become what it is today, a place that's much loved by many.
What Can You Do at Ward's Berry Farm?
When you head over to Ward's Berry Farm, it's not just about getting some fresh produce; it's also about having a good time and making some happy memories. There's a whole bunch of things to do there, so it's almost like a little adventure for everyone who comes by. Whether you like to get your hands a little dirty picking your own food or you're more into enjoying some fun farm activities, there's a pretty good chance you'll find something that makes you smile. It's a place that really invites guests to connect, to feel a part of something, which is a nice feeling, really.
Picking Goodies at Ward's Berry Farm
One of the most popular things people love to do at Ward's Berry Farm is pick their own fruits. There’s something truly special about gathering your own food right from the plant, isn't there? It’s a very hands-on experience that many families enjoy, and it gives you a real appreciation for where your food comes from. During the warmer months, you can go out into the fields and pick blueberries, which are always a treat. When the seasons change a bit, the farm also lets you pick your own strawberries, which are just so sweet and juicy. And as the year moves along, especially when autumn rolls around, you can find yourself out in the pumpkin patch, choosing the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating. They also have raspberries available for picking, which are a lovely addition to any snack or dessert. It’s a pretty fun way to spend some time outdoors, and you get to take home some really fresh food too, which is just great.
Fun for All Ages at Ward's Berry Farm
Beyond picking your own delicious items, Ward's Berry Farm has a whole host of other activities that make it a delightful place for everyone, no matter how old you are. During certain times of the year, especially in strawberry and pumpkin seasons, they offer public hayrides. These are a lot of fun, letting you sit back and enjoy a ride around the farm, seeing all the sights. For the little ones, there's a petting zoo where they can meet some friendly farm animals, and a playground where they can run around and burn off some energy. The farm also hosts special events throughout the year, so there’s always something new happening. If you’re looking to celebrate a birthday, you can even have birthday parties there, which sounds like a pretty memorable way to mark a special day. And for schools, they offer tours, giving children a chance to learn about farming and where their food comes from in a really engaging way. It’s clear they think about how to make everyone’s visit enjoyable, which is pretty nice.
What Delicious Treats Are at Ward's Berry Farm?
Ward's Berry Farm isn't just about the fresh produce you pick or buy; it's also a place where you can find some really tasty things to eat right then and there, or to take home with you. It’s more than just a farm stand; it’s a spot where you can satisfy your hunger with a good meal or grab some wonderful ingredients for your own cooking. They’ve got a variety of choices, so it's almost certain you’ll find something that hits the spot, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or something more substantial. The fact that you can get prepared food, too, is a real convenience, especially after a fun day out on the farm.
Eating and Shopping at Ward's Berry Farm
The farm has a place that works as both a restaurant and a farmers market, which is pretty handy. You can get a selection of sandwiches and subs, which are known for being quite delicious and not costing too much, which is always a plus. If you’re feeling thirsty, they also make smoothies, which are a refreshing choice, especially on a warm day. Beyond the prepared foods, the farm store is a treasure trove of fresh produce, of course, but also baked goods that smell absolutely wonderful, and different kinds of cheeses. You can grab something to go and enjoy it later, or you can eat it right there at the farm, perhaps enjoying the indoor/outdoor market area. They make it pretty easy to get what you need, too. You can order online, which is very convenient, or even get delivery if you can’t make it to the farm. This means you can still enjoy their seasonal activities and all their good food even if you're not physically there, which is a really thoughtful touch. It's clear they want to make their fresh offerings available to as many people as possible.
How Does Ward's Berry Farm Care for the Earth?
It's one thing to grow good food, but it's another to do it in a way that respects the land and helps keep it healthy for the future. Ward's Berry Farm really thinks about this, and they have some practices in place that show their care for the earth. They're not just focused on getting a good harvest; they also consider how their farming methods affect the natural world around them. This attention to how they grow their crops is a big part of what makes them a place you can feel good about supporting. It’s pretty important, really, that farms consider these things, and they seem to do a good job of it.
A good portion of the farm, about 18 acres, is used for growing certified organic crops. This means they follow strict rules to make sure these particular crops are grown without certain chemicals, which many people appreciate. For their other 160 acres, they use something called Integrated Pest Management, or IPM. This is a smart way of dealing with unwanted critters that might try to eat the crops. The main idea behind IPM is to manage any trouble from these little pests without spending too much money, but also in a way that is kind to the environment. It’s about being thoughtful and strategic in how they farm, balancing the need to grow food with the need to protect the land. They also talk about their land stewardship and marketing philosophy, which just goes to show they think about the bigger picture when it comes to their farm, which is quite commendable.
Ready to Visit Ward's Berry Farm?
If all this talk about fresh produce, fun activities, and caring for the land has made you want to see Ward's Berry Farm for yourself, then you're in luck! It's a place that's very welcoming and easy to find. The farm is located at 614 South Main Street in Sharon, Massachusetts, with the zip code 02067. You can easily get directions to this spot, so finding your way there should be pretty straightforward. They also make things easy when you get there; they accept cash, credit cards, and even checks for payment, so you have options. They're also in the process of making the area outside their store easier to get around, which means increased accessibility for everyone, which is a thoughtful improvement, really.
Ward's Berry Farm is a family-run farm and a roadside market that truly brings the best in fresh fruits and vegetables to the community. It's a spot that appeals to visitors of all ages, offering a delightful experience right in the heart of Massachusetts. From picking your own berries to enjoying a delicious sandwich, or simply shopping for fresh produce and baked goods, there's a lot to experience. You can even view their menu online if you want to get a sneak peek at the sandwiches and other goodies they offer. It’s a place that invites you to connect with the land and enjoy the simple pleasures of farm life, and it’s certainly a spot that many people come back to again and again.
Farm – Wards Berry Farm, Sharon MA
Wards Berry Farm, Sharon MA – Pick Your Own Farm Fresh Produce
Wards Berry Farm, Sharon MA – Pick Your Own Farm Fresh Produce
