Student association invites students for an afternoon at ROCA Berry Farm

On Sunday, October 27th, the Student Association offered free entry for students to ROCA Berry Farm. Entry was limited to two hundred people and a spreadsheet was sent out weeks prior so that students could claim spots for themselves and friends. There were also spots available that students could secure on the day of the event so that they would not miss it. Free entry was open from 12-2 p.m., but students were able to stay until the closing of the park. 

The admission booth provided students with their tickets to get in and the farm itself offered food stands, games and many fun activities to choose from. There were many photo opportunities scattered around the premises, from painted booths to benches littered with pumpkins. Students could be found sitting on swings and fences, lying in the grass and walking from one area of interest to another. Kaitlyn Porter, a student at Union, said, “It was a great opportunity to take a break from my studies and spend time with friends.”

Students could also go to concession stands that had foods like caramel apples, kettle corn and funnel cakes. Picnic tables were also available for students so that they could sit and rest before doing the rest of the activities the farm provided. Though admission was free, food and some of the activities were not. Other groups preferred the outdoor atmosphere and decided to tackle the games and activities on the outskirts of the grounds. Destinations included the corn maze, a train ride around the fields, a hayride to the pumpkin patch, a playground area, and a jumping spot that was popular with younger kids. Students could get into gunny sacks and go on the long slides set up on the hill. There were also buildings and rustic decorations that had a Western theme to them which could serve as a photo spot for students. 

As the afternoon progressed, students walked around the farm and were able to hear live music being played at a stage near the entrance of the farm. Pumpkins were in abundance, and many people stopped to take photos with a massive pumpkin statue. It was helpful that this event took place when it was still warm outside so that students could make unforgettable memories without the cold weather putting a damper on their spirits.

by Jenna Wilson