Strawberry Picking at Wegmeyer Farms
Growing up in Michigan, I have fond childhood memories of visiting my Grandparents in Northern Michigan and staying for weeks at a time in the summer. My Grandpa worked for the DNR and they lived right next to the Fish Hatchery. We were outside all day long playing in the woods - nevermind the possibility for bears!
I have a lot of cousins - my mom has nine siblings. So when we were all visiting for the summer my Grandparents had to entertain us for free or cheap! I bet they wish Macaroni Kid existed back then! We would spend entire days out picking strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries. No fancy festivals or events, just berry picking and lots of fun. We would then go back to the house and my Grandma would make the most amazing jams, desserts, and pies. We were spoiled.
So here's what I'm kind of embarrassed to admit, until yesterday my kids have never been berry picking. Something I loved so much as a child and my kids had yet to experience it. On the way to Wegmeyer Farms at Gilbert's Corner, my 4-year-old told us not to pick the green ones because they are babies. How did he know this you ask? From YouTube, of course (palm meet face, total mom fail).
I loved the simplicity and no fuss set up at Gilbert's Corner. With parking right next to the field we didn't have to walk far to the u-pick stand. As most parents know, parking and a long walk leading up to the venue or event location can be tough with kids.
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The boys each got a basket and within a minute we were headed toward the fields to pick. We had to practice a few times to perfect the "pluck" in order to keep the stem on, but after a few tries they were pros and I couldn't keep up with them. The picnic tables located in the shade at the entry of the fields is a perfect set up to make an entire afternoon outing out of it. There are also port-a-potties on site. After picking, we enjoyed an afternoon snack of donuts and lemonade from the on-site donut truck.
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I'm excited I was able to introduce my kids to something I loved so much as a child. Especially because it was at a family-owned farm so close to home. We can't wait for pumpkin season! And now I have to figure out what to make with all these delicious strawberries. Unfortunately for my kids, I don't bake like my Grandma!
Wegmeyer Farms has three locations in Loudoun County - so your family is sure to enjoy any u-pick experience.
Hamilton, VA boutique farm setting – Tucked away on back roads of Lincoln (between Purcellville and Leesburg) at a historic homestead, the farm provides the most scenic views of rolling farmlands. They offer picnic tables for you to bring your own lunch and refreshments available for sale. After you pick berries, we invite you to stick around with the kids and let them play on the John Deere tractor slide and playground. 38299 Hughesville Road, Hamilton, VA
Historic Oatlands – the strawberry patch and era-themed attire at this historic mansion will whisk you back to the 1800’s. Parking is now available right beside the strawberry field down Little Oatlands Lane. While visiting the strawberry patch is free, you can choose to make a day of it by purchasing tour passes for the historical garden and/or mansion in addition to strawberry picking. Little Oatlands Lane, Leesburg, VA.
Gilbert’s Corner – strawberry picking in its most natural state. This no-fuss location is perfect for a simple outing. Parking is available right at the site. The intersection of Route 15 and Route 50 in Aldie, VA.
Customers are encouraged to call the strawberry field hotline at (540) 751-1782 or visit www.wegmeyerfarms.com to check field conditions.
Jourdan and her family were provided free product for this review, but all opinions are her own.
