Farming & Maple

Throughout the year, experience the harvest of products that make Geauga County unique.

The new generation of farmers delivers far more than fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Alpaca farms and horse farms are the fastest-growing industries in the region. Many invite you to roll up your sleeves and be part of the experience. Celebrate the bounty in Geauga County all year long.

Sweet Spring
Geauga County is the number one producer of maple syrup in the state of Ohio. When the nights are cold and the days are warm, the sap is flowing. Everywhere buckets are hanging on trees to collect the liquid gold, which is boiled down for the region’s finest maple syrup. Celebrate the season at the Geauga County Maple Festival in Chardon, and at the many area sugarhouses.

In March syrup makers around the county open their doors for the Maple Sugaring Open House Weekends. This self-guided experience gives you the opportunity to learn first-hand how maple syrup is made. See Maple products and the Calendar of Events for the many ways to enjoy the season.

Spring is also the time to sow your own seeds. You will find all you need to spruce up your gardens and yards at the many garden centers.

Succulent Summer
Fresh fruits and vegetables, and baked goods are sold at farmers markets and roadside stands. Stay alert for picking time when blueberries and strawberries are ready to harvest. Grocery stores can’t compete with ripe peaches plucked from the tree, fresh picked sweet corn, or plump tomatoes right off the vine.

Specialty animal farms offer a variety of unique stops. From miniature donkeys to alpaca farms, there are many choices when visiting our agricultural side. Exquisite fibers harvested each spring are the basis for the distinctive items found in on-site gift shops at many of the farms.

Fantastic Fall
Autumn is the time to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and celebrate the harvest. Apples, pumpkins, hayrides, corn mazes, and fragrant apple butter are the focus of fall festivals and harvest weekends. Farms and garden centers host a variety of activities.

Crisp Winter
The wonderful scent of fresh-cut pine, the thrill of a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and Christmas and Holiday happenings surround you with the spirit of the season. Visit Geauga County farms, markets and garden centers for the best home-spun holiday shopping around.