One of Penn State’s annual celebrations of local agriculture and sustainability will return this week as the Student Farm Club hosts its 11th annual Harvest Fest.
The free community event will take place from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17 at Penn State’s Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at the intersection of Big Hollow and Fox Hollow roads.
Harvest Fest will feature food samples, cooking demonstrations, a petting zoo and more than 20 farm-themed activities and vendors. The event is open to everyone.
Penn State Housing and Food Services, Taproot Kitchen, State College Area High School and Paul’s Provisions are expected to provide food samples featuring seasonal ingredients. New to this year’s event, chef Lorinda John will lead cooking demonstrations throughout the evening.
Student organizer Alex Schultes said he is looking forward to the addition of the demonstrations and the return of the petting zoo.
“The demos are new this year, and I’m really excited to see cooking in action at Harvest Fest,” Schultes said in a statement.
Visitors also can create sun prints, explore the farm and take part in hands-on activities throughout the evening. Penn State students can plant a succulent for free, while the activity will cost $5 for community members.
Harvest Fest is organized by the Student Farm Club, which brings together students interested in sustainable food systems, agriculture, food insecurity, food waste and culinary education. The club also operates projects including a hydroponic greenhouse and rooftop garden, with food grown through those initiatives donated to the Lion’s Pantry, Penn State’s student food pantry.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to learn about a proposed multipurpose facility at the Student Farm that could expand educational programming and other activities at the site.
Free shuttle service will run continuously from the Berkey Creamery bus pull-off on Curtin Road to the Student Farm from 4:15 to 7:45 p.m. The farm can also be reached using the CATA H route or by bicycle, with a SPIN bike docking station near the entrance.
Limited parking will be available in the paved lot next to the farm. Visitors will need a Penn State parking permit or can pay using the posted mobile payment system.
Student Farm Club merchandise and other items will be available for purchase with cash, check or Venmo. Organizers recommend attendees wear sturdy shoes and bring sun protection.
Harvest Fest will be held rain or shine. In the event of potential thunderstorms, updates will be posted on the Student Farm’s social media pages.
More information about Harvest Fest and the Student Farm Club is available through the Student Farm Club’s website.
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