Iron Kettle Farm celebrates 45 years of spooky fun

Since 1969, Iron Kettle Farm, located at 707 Owego Rd., Rte. 96 in Candor, N.Y. has been a “spooktacular” fun place for kids and adults, helping families make fond memories during the fall season.

When Skip and Jeanne Jackson purchased the original farm in 1969, they found a huge kettle behind a barn, left by the previous owner. They named their new roadside market Iron Kettle Farm after that kettle, and over the years have purchased additional property to expand the farm. About fifteen more kettles have been acquired since, now used as planters on the grounds.

A family owned business; Skip and Jeanne Jackson and their children, son Brian Jackson, daughters Bonnie Jensen and Jennifer Jennison, and nine grandchildren run Iron Kettle Farm.
Open from May 1 through Oct. 31, the fall season attracts hundreds, if not thousands, of visitors to the farm. Bonnie Jensen explained, “Not all visitors buy ride or activity tickets, and since we don’t charge a parking fee, we do not count visitors.” But it’s safe to say that on any given day, especially in October, Iron Kettle Farm is a very busy destination.

A non-stop operation, hard work is year round at Iron Kettle Farm, beginning with the maple syrup process in February. Bedding plants and perennials take residence in the greenhouse by early spring, and planting pumpkins occurs the first part of June. Preparations for the fall festivities actually begin as early as July, a huge undertaking just in itself.
Bonnie Jensen shared, “Our efforts help keep four families going,” and she added, “We are thankful that the community continues to enjoy Iron Kettle Farm.”

One of the most popular attractions on the farm is the pumpkin display of famous book characters, celebrities or other notable people. Starting with ten to 12 characters in 1969, the pumpkin display has expanded to nearly 300 today. Bonnie and Jennifer task themselves to find the best pumpkins each season and then primp and pamper the characters to look just right. Jennifer adds her artistic touch by painting on the faces and expressions.

The farm grounds are open every day in October from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with activities generally starting around 10:30 a.m. Tickets for activities are $1.25 each, and each activity takes between one and three tickets. On weekends, wristbands are an option for $15.

The pumpkin express train and hayride are ready for passengers, and kids get a kick out of the pedal tractors and castle and tunnel yard. There is plenty of fun for teens and adults too, like the pumpkin slingshot, football throw, and much more. Everyone loves the corn maze and don’t miss the spook barn this year, it’s had a “re-do” with some new scenes added. For the younger ages, a little less spooky option is the fun barn.

Visitors should be pleased with the pumpkin selection this year. Bonnie Jensen shared, “We had enough rain, so there are plenty of good sized pumpkins.” Also at the farm are New York State apples, fall mums, winter squash, gourds, corn stalks and potatoes, to name a few.

Visitors will be impressed with the variety of treats and homemade baked goods, choices to please every sweet tooth. Homemade fudge, donuts, half-moon cookies, caramel apples, pies, apple cider and kettle corn is available, as are homemade jams. Check for the “Iron Kettle Farm” label to purchase a product made right at the farm.

Before you leave, be sure to stop in Grandma’s Barn, the largest fall gift shop in Tioga County. Iron Kettle Farm stocks most items, but there is also a selection made my local crafters.
For more information, call (607) 659-7707. Iron Kettle Farm is on Facebook, or visit their website, ironkettlefarm.com.