CORRYTON, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Oakes Farm is gearing up for another fall season, with operators taking extra steps to keep visitors comfortable as East Tennessee experiences above-normal temperatures during opening weekend.
Owner Ken Oakes said the popular family attraction is prepared for several days of hot weather and is encouraging guests to stay hydrated and take advantage of shaded areas throughout the property.
“We’ve got lots of shady areas, lots of pavilions and shade trees,” Oakes said. “And you’ve got lots of opportunities for things to drink, keep hydrated and that kind of stuff.”
The farm, which is celebrating its 26th year, has become a longtime fall tradition for many East Tennessee families.
“We’ve been really blessed to have folks come out to the farm and enjoy a day out at the farm,” Oakes said. “Now the folks who came as kids are bringing their kids.”
Popular Fall Attractions Return
Visitors can once again enjoy many of the farm’s signature attractions, including:
- Hayrides to the pumpkin patch
- A large corn maze
- Farm animals
- Giant slides
- Corn box play area
- Apple cannons
- Pick-your-own flower fields
Oakes said opening weekends with temperatures in the 90s are not unusual.
“This won’t be the first time that our first weekend is in the 90s,” he said. “We would prefer it cool off sooner, but we just take what we get and make the best of it.”
Crops Hold Up Despite Dry Conditions
While recent rainfall has been limited, Oakes said the farm’s corn maze benefited from good moisture earlier in the growing season.
The corn received sufficient rain during July and the first half of August, helping it reach its full height before conditions turned drier.
“It’s plenty tall,” Oakes said. “It would like more rain, but it’s fine.”
The farm’s flower fields, including sunflowers, zinnias, and wildflowers, have required extensive irrigation to remain healthy. Oakes said employees have spent considerable time watering both flowers and grassy areas throughout the property.
Heat Safety a Priority
Because many guests spend three to four hours at the farm, and some stay even longer, Oakes is encouraging visitors to plan ahead.
He recommends:
- Wearing lightweight clothing
- Bringing or purchasing water
- Wearing hats
- Applying sunscreen
- Taking breaks in shaded areas when needed
Visitors are welcome to bring their own water bottles, and sunscreen is available for purchase on-site.
Looking Ahead to October
Tickets are available through the farm’s website using a timed-entry system that requires visitors to select a specific day and arrival time. Weekday tickets are generally less expensive than weekend admissions.
Oakes noted that the first few weekends of the season are often less crowded, making them an attractive option for families looking to avoid larger October crowds.
“Once we get into October, that’s when it really kicks in too,” Oakes said. “It cools down a little bit and feels like fall.”
Despite the warm start, Oakes says the farm is ready to welcome visitors looking to enjoy one of East Tennessee’s favorite autumn traditions.
