FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – Ropin’ haystacks of steer, launching ears of corn from a cannon at targets, taking hayrides around the farm in between barbecue sandwiches and face painting, it was the start of the fall season for Cowart Ranch and Farms in western Flagler County.
A staple in the community event has been taking place for nearly a decade, overseen by Brittney Kinney and her husband Dalton. A labor of love, it’s continued to grow and evolve over the years, and morphed into a true family-friendly experience.
Adding something new this year, ‘Nothin’ But Trouble’ was on hand to give city slickers a ride in a Monster Truck. There happened to be an open weekend in their schedule and Maze Dayz was able to nab the popular ride according to driver and co-owner Michael Cole.
Here for opening weekend only, the Daytona Beach-based truck will spend the rest of the season at another maze attraction on the other side of the state, he said.
“It was an open weekend for us. The rest of the weekends we were already booked down at Hunsader’s Farm in Bradenton,” shared Cole on Saturday night.
He enjoys bringing his own family along for events like these and the hometown feel they create for the community.
“Where else can you go to pick pumpkins or go out on a bounce house and see livestock animals, food and other entertainment?”
Touring the pumpkin patch and country store where fresh baked goods, jams and jellies, and holiday decor were all for sale, Melissa Chipps brought her daughter, granddaughter and family friend out for the season opener.
“We always come here because it’s local and we like supporting our local farms and local people,” said Chipps. “They have fun in the corn maze, and the hayrides she loves, and to play in the corn playground. We have fun.”
“Our children learn about how farming is done, and lots of other things. The city is important but so is being outside with nature, learning about animals, and vegetables, and how to grow them.”
Shopkeeper Kelly Rosa has been happy to help visitors to the Maze Dayz event throughout the day and said the number one seller has been the pumpkins.
“There’s local honey, fresh made bread, jams and pickles, all made locally. We have some fresh eggs, as well. Throughout the store there’s country goods and home decor things,” she said.
“It’s a lot of fun seeing families have something to do together. I think there’s something for everybody to enjoy.”
