Embrace the essence and tastes of autumn at our 9th annual Harvest Fest! Campus and community members are invited to spend an evening on the farm sampling farm-fresh foods, making crafts, and engaging with our student farmers. Join us for a fun-filled evening. The event is free and open to the public.

Food samples will be provided throughout the evening by a diversity of local chefs and caterers, including Taproot Kitchen, the Village at Penn State, State College Area High School, Paul’s Provisions and our very own Penn State Housing and Food Services chefs. Try tasty dishes and samples made with seasonal vegetables.

Guests will also have the opportunity to make sun prints, plant their own succulent (free for Penn State students; $5 for all other guests), enjoy a petting zoo and participate in other farm-themed activities. Guests can also learn about our plans for a new multi-purpose facility on the farm that will transform the types of educational experiences we can provide to the community.

We strongly encourage guests to use sustainable transportation options to get to the farm, which is located at the intersection of Big Hollow Rd. and Fox Hollow Rd.

-- Free event buses will run continuously between the Berkey Creamery bus pull-off on Curtin Rd. and the Ross Student Farm from 3:45-7:15 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, families and community members are all encouraged to utilize these blue event buses to get to Harvest Fest.

-- A SPIN bike docking area is conveniently located next to the main entry gate to the farm, for any SPIN bike users.

-- Attendees can reach the farm using CATA buses H and HU routes, or a personal bike.

-- There will also be limited parking in the paved lot next to the farm. All parking for the event requires either any level of Penn State permit or pay by Park Mobile app at $1/hour.

Each year, Harvest Fest is planned and executed by an enthusiastic group of student leaders. Isabella Mikelonis, sophomore in telecommunications, has been coordinating with partner organizations to plan a diversity of fun and engaging farm activities for guests.

“Last year was my first time experiencing Harvest Fest, and it was so amazing to see how all of these different groups, in and outside of Penn State, came together to promote sustainability,” Mikelonis said. “There was something for everyone, from free succulents for students, fun stations, and delicious food. I hope to see students and the community come out to celebrate!”

Student Farm Club merchandise purchases, succulent fees and any other payments can be made with cash, check or Venmo. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and use sun protection throughout the event.

The event will be held rain or shine; in the case of potential thunderstorms please visit the Student Farm Facebook and Instagram pages for up-to-date information. If you have any questions about Harvest Fest, please contact us via email at: [email protected].