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Summertime Fun for Kids!

© Christina Coruth

Some ideas for places to go and things to do for kids -- of all ages!

Down on the Charmingfare Farm

If you're looking for something to do this summer that is different, not too expensive, and a lot of fun for kids of all ages, then look no further than that huge farm in Candia known as Charmingfare Farm.

Charmingfare Farm proclaims, "It's a Zoo!" and for good reason. Over 200 animals representing 30 different species reside there. The Farm boasts the largest collection of agricultural animals in the state as well as an impressive collection of wild animals from all over North America. Weather permitting; a trip to Charmingfare is an adventure.

The petting area where you can get up close to barnyard animals such as pigs and sheep is a favorite part of Charmingfare. Agricultural animals include llamas, chicken, mini-donkeys, turkeys, oxen, and various breeds of goats, horses, sheep, and cows.

You have to leave the barnyard to find the wild animal exhibits! You can walk along one of the paths that lead into the woods. Or you can take the hour and a half long horse drawn hayride through the woods, which will stop at the exhibits along the way. (Horse-drawn hayrides are free with paid admission and run continuously from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.). Some of the wild animals you will see are not found in the wild in New Hampshire such as the timber wolf, the wolverine, the cougar and the prairie dog. Other animals on exhibit are found throughout most of the country. These include the raccoon, porcupine, and red fox. You will have an opportunity to learn more about these wonderful animals as well as observe them in the exhibits.

Some animals may surprise you. For instance, the fisher cat, which is found in New Hampshire, is not a cat and does not fish. It's a member of the weasel family. But then, sharing information about animals and helping us to learn about them, whether they are wild or domesticated, is the goal of the folks at Charmingfare Farm.

Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day. You'll find picnic tables all throughout the Farm. With its forests, pastures, and streams, the setting couldn't be prettier for a picnic.

In addition to the animal exhibits, there are pony rides ($3.00 per ride), hayrides, demonstrations, and special events. Summer Camp, horse riding lessons, and special programs for school groups and bus groups are also available.

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