Mullica Hill’s own Hill Creek Farm – owned by a family of four generations – has reopened and will remain open to the public until Sunday, Nov. 5.
Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Guests will find activities such as hands-on farming and hayrides to learn how Hill Creek works. Its opening marked the onset of harvest season.
“People are looking to teach their children that vegetables come from the ground and not a plastic bag,” said owner Fred Sorbello. “I love sharing my farm with the public, so they understand the importance of knowing where their food comes from.”
Saballo was 8 when he began working on the family farm, according to Hill Creek’s website. At 23, he inherited the property, first acquired by his grandparents when they emigrated from Italy in the 1920s.
Saballo hopes to educate both the Mullica Hill community and his own grandchildren about life on a farm. Each Saturday and Sunday will feature live music as well as the chance to hand-pick sunflowers.
“For years, Fred Sorbello has nurtured his family farming legacy, and although the mix of produce has evolved over decades, the mission has remained the same: to grow fruits and vegetables locally, educate future generations about farming and agriculture, and bring the nutritious flavors of his crops to the local tables,” said the farm’s Veronica Knell.
The Auburn Road Wine Garden and Vineyards also sits on the farm’s 61-acre property and works in partnership with Hill Creek to produce wine and apple cider vinegar that is available to guests.
“We wanted Hill Creek’s Apple Cider to shine through in this wine and have really perfected that,” said Auburn Road’s owner Scott Donnini. “It’s juicy, acidic, tart, and crisp, with the perfect amount of sweetness, exactly the flavors we wanted to capture. And of course, having it here at the farm is just an experience you can’t beat.”
Food can be purchased at the farm and there is also a new cafe run by Hallowed Grounds Coffee Co. A barrel train, hay rides and a playground will entertain guests.
