Exciting Future for Historic Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm in Aurora is about to undergo a magical transformation. And in the process, this iconic landmark will achieve what many of us have found to be elusive.

Yes, Blackberry Farm will begin to look younger, even as it grows older.

A modern makeover is currently under way that will bring a series of exciting additions and improvements at ol’ Blackberry. Think of it as polishing a nostalgic jewel.

There’s nothing secret to this age-defying remedy. It will all be there for the public to see beginning on May 1, when Blackberry Farm opens for its 43rd year. Since 1969, the historic pioneer village and farm has delighted and educated generations of visitors.

This year will be extra special. All the traditional favorites like the steam-engine replica train, carousel, hay wagon rides and pedal tractors will remain intact, accentuated by new features and amenities that will make each visit all the more exciting.

“We’re taking what’s good and making it even better,” said Jeff Palmquist, director of planning, development and grants with the Fox Valley Park District. “This makeover will maintain all of Blackberry Farm’s historical charm while adding a fresh wave of new attractions.”

The adventure park will feature an extensive network of climbing decks, slides, ropes and catwalk-style bridges connecting an array of playhouses on multiple levels, bringing a 21st-century twist to the historic pioneer village. Construction is expected to be complete by September, just in time for Pumpkin Weekends, which run every weekend in October.

“Most children have never experienced something like this,” said Palmquist. “It is a unique combination of interactive features; a hands-on farm museum integrated into a custom play structure where children go from deck to deck answering questions and learning about the history of pioneer life.”

Other highlights include a new, 2,500-square-foot picnic shelter that will serve as a performance stage for live entertainment, with a new, modern restroom building having already been constructed near the performance shelter.

Nearby, on the shore of Lake Gregory, a new boathouse shelter/pavilion and dock have been built and will accommodate paddle boats that are available to visitors during designated times.

The south end of Lake Gregory and the adjacent land areas bordering Blackberry Creek will feature picnic areas and agricultural displays exhibiting early-day farm practices. Also, expanded group picnic shelters throughout the park will be ideal for larger gatherings.

And with all that’s going on this season at Blackberry Farm, those picnic areas will surely be popular as families and groups descend in droves. No fewer than two dozen special events are on tap during the regular season (May 1 to Aug. 26), when Blackberry Farm is open seven days a week.

With so much to see and do, a visit to Blackberry Farm will make us all feel a bit younger – and wiser, at that.

Jeff Long is the public relations manager at the Fox Valley Park District. Visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org for more information and be sure to ‘like’ Blackberry Farm on Facebook.