There’s been an autumn tradition in my hometown for as long as I can remember, an experience whose proceeds benefit the children of the community. This annual event is the Hartford Optimist Club’s Haunted Hayride.
The hayride takes place on select weekend evenings in October each year. It originally took place at Hartford Orchards in the center of town, but moved to Storeyland Christmas Tree Farm in neighboring Burghill, Ohio, nearly twenty years ago.
Non-haunted Hayrides
Each night there is a non-haunted fall hayride during the early hours. Wagons depart between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. for the ride through the fields. This hayride costs $3.00 per person. Although the wagons used are the same for the non-haunted and haunted hayrides, the 20-25 minute route is entirely different. The route takes visitors across the farm allowing riders to view the vibrant fall foliage against the darker greens of the pines, spruces, and firs. There are no artificial decorations to draw your eye–you are able to focus on the beauty of the surrounding nature.
The non-haunted hayride is popular with church groups and with parents of small children. Because of the ages (and bedtimes) of the little ones with us, this is the one we chose to take this year.
Our party consisted of three two-year-olds, a one-year-old, their six parents, and us (doting grandparent and great-aunt and uncle to two of the little ones). The kids enjoyed the ride, although they didn’t always want to sit still.
We went a little later than planned. The sun was setting, and it was difficult to get pictures. The leaves also hadn’t turned yet, but it was still a beautiful ride.
Haunted Hayrides
The Optimist Club offers haunted hayrides on the same nights from 7:30-10:00 for $7.00 per person. The ride isn’t super scary, but younger children may become frightened. Several different scenes, startling noises, and ghosts and goblins await the “unsuspecting” travelers. While we did not ride the haunted hayride that night, I was able to capture some of the volunteers (special privileges).
Bonfire and Tasty Treats
After your ride, warm up by the fire and indulge in hot dogs, cider, and s’mores. Participants roast their own hot dogs and marshmallows on provided sticks. Prices are reasonable: Hotdogs and s’mores are $1.50 each. Nachos are $2.50. Candy and drinks (soda, water, hot chocolate, and hot or cold cider) are $1.00 each. Slim Jims and chips are 50 cents each. The Optimist Club was also selling glow necklaces for $1.00 each the evening we were there–three little girls went home happy that night!
Know Before You Go
*The hayrides are run and sponsored by the Hartford Optimist Club. Proceeds help support Hartford and Badger youth programs such as soccer, baseball, softball, scouting, church youth groups and more.
*The Optimist Club accepts cash only. The nearest ATM is at the general store in Orangeville, about three miles away.
*All of the workers are volunteers. Many times, you will find area youth working in the concession stand or helping “haunt” in the fields.
*The hayride may be cancelled for inclement weather. If it is cancelled, a notice will be placed on Storeyland’s Facebook page. Please check before coming out.
Final Thoughts
Hartford (and the entire Badger School District) has been lucky to have the support of the Optimist Club for many years. The volunteers who work with the hayride and pumpkin sales at the center have made it possible for local children to enjoy many activities over the years. Thank you to those volunteers and to everyone who comes out, purchases a ticket, and helps support these great programs.
Hope to see you at the hayride–this year or next!
This is fun activity for spooky night! Will you guy do it again this year?
The Optimist Club will continue to operate the hayride as long as they have enough volunteers. It’s been a Northeastern Ohio tradition for more than 30 years, so we really don’t want to see it end.
Ahh this is something my kids would love!! I love that you share your family traditions with us, it makes me feel closer and it gives so many insights of the big and small activities that are part of your culture.
Looks like you had great family fun. All seem so happy & lovely pictures.
What a great family activity! I love events like these, I feel they bring the family closer together.
looks fun! i have never experienced haunted places. Must be pretty exciting!
I love hayrides and Halloween fun! I’d definitely pick the haunted option
Wow I wish I lived there to experience the haunted hayrides! 😃 Well, have fun!
My grandkids would love doing a hayride – it sounds like such a wonderful family event.
Love a good haunted hayride! I think it’s great that they have rides for the little ones that are more kid-friendly. Gotta love the scary clown with the saw blade, that’s just awesome all by itself.
i hope i can join you guys on at least one Hayride during the Halloween festivities! looks like it’s so much fun!
What a great activity and way to support your youth activities. It sounds like a lot of fun. Too bad I’m too far away.
Is this an annual thing? Would really love to go this year!
It is! The hayride is usually held the first three Saturdays in October and the fourth Friday and Saturday. Weather permitting, of course.
Love Halloween theme activities ! I want to take my Daughter on one since she’s big enough
I’m not sure we even have hayrides here and haunted ones sound amazing. You look like you are having so much fun!
Thank you for sharing about this incredible place and photos! I’d love some fun and spooky experience too.
Great post. I love how committed your family is to one another. You often share posts like this one about your family doing amazing things together. This hayride and whole festival sounds like wonderful family fun. Thanks for sharing.
I recommend for people to talking a small blanket for small children that don’t like the scratchy hay