Spend the day on the farm in McHenry

Submitted by city of McHenry

Area residents are invited to the city of McHenry’s annual “Day at Petersen Farm” on Sunday, June 23, at McHenry Petersen Farm, 4112 McCullom Lake Road in McHenry.

This year’s theme honors McHenry County’s historic dairy industry. The Petersen Farm was formed in 1840 and donated to the city by the Colby and Petersen families to be preserved and developed as a part of the county’s agricultural heritage.

The day will feature the traditional hayrides, children’s games, crafts demonstrations, farm equipment displays and a farm garden. 4-H members will be there with farm animals.

The Georgia Rae Family Band will entertain with bluegrass music. A barbershop quartet, “The Cleffhangers,” will perform. The famous Windy City Magician, a crowd favorite, will appear. Children can wash clothes using an old wringer washer. The farmhouse main floor will be open for tours and visitors will see the period furniture and kitchen equipment. Miss McHenry and her court will greet visitors. The McHenry County Museum will have its “James Bus” open for viewing.

A highlight this year is a cow-naming contest for the city’s full-sized Holstein dairy cow model. Children, age 5-10, may obtain entry forms at the McHenry Public Library or on the city’s website www.ci.mchenry.il.us. Entries must be submitted by Sunday, June 16.

People attending on Farm Day may vote on their favorite of four name finalists.

The farm will open at 10 a.m. Entertainment begins at noon and activities conclude at 4 p.m. There is no charge for parking or admission. Vendors will be available with refreshments.