Summer Activities in Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, offers a variety of engaging and educational activities perfect for children and families. Here are three must-visit attractions that promise kids fun, learning, and memorable summer experiences.

Back Home on the Farm

Located on 240 acres of beautiful farmland in Rockingham County, Back Home on the Farm is a haven for children and families seeking a taste of country life. This sprawling farm features 40 attractions, delightful playgrounds, and butterflies. Kids can enjoy a scoop of delicious ice cream while exploring the farm or browsing the country store filled with toys and yummy goodies. *Farm animals are available to visit depending on the weather.

Highlights:

  • Farm Animals: Children can interact with friendly farm animals, providing a hands-on experience with nature.
  • Butterfly House: A magical spot where kids can witness the life cycle of butterflies up close.
  • Country Store: Packed with unique toys and local treats, perfect for souvenirs or a sweet snack.

Explore More Discovery Museum

The Explore More Discovery Museum is an interactive gem designed to captivate the imaginations of children and their families. Voted “Best Museum and Best Kid-Friendly Venue of the Valley”, this award-winning museum offers a plethora of hands-on exhibits and educational programs.

Highlights:

  • Interactive Exhibits: Each exhibit is crafted to be educational and fun, encouraging kids to learn through play.
  • Family Programs: The museum hosts various programs that cater to different age groups, ensuring an engaging experience for all.
  • Special Events: Keep an eye out for special summer events and workshops that add excitement to your visit.

Frontier Culture Museum

The Frontier Culture Museum is the largest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley and one of Virginia’s top family-friendly attractions. It brings history to life with costumed interpreters and interactive exhibits that showcase the customs and daily lives of Native American tribes, early European settlers, and enslaved Africans.

Highlights:

  • Historical Interpreters: Meet blacksmiths, woodworkers, tailors, and yarn spinners who demonstrate traditional crafts and skills.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Learn how early settlers cooked, worked the land, and lived day-to-day in the New World.
  • Cultural Education: Discover the rich history and diverse cultures that shaped the Shenandoah Valley and early America.

Grab the kids and prepare for a summer adventure in Harrisonburg, Virginia!

Visit our blog for more travel tips along with recipes and gardening tips!

Growing Squash

Summer squash is a versatile and prolific vegetable that can thrive in various garden settings. Whether you prefer zucchini, yellow squash, or pattypan, summer squash is relatively easy to grow and provides a bountiful harvest. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow summer squash successfully.

Summer squash is a gardener’s favorite because it matures quickly, often producing its first fruits in as little as 50 days from planting. It’s also incredibly versatile in the kitchen, perfect for grilling, sautéing, baking, or eating raw.

There are several types of summer squash to choose from:

Zucchini: This popular variety comes in green and yellow, and it’s known for its mild flavor and versatility.

Yellow Squash: Also known as crookneck or straight neck squash, it has a slightly sweet flavor and tender skin.

Pattypan Squash: These small, round, scallop-edged squash are great for stuffing and roasting.

Choose a variety based on your culinary preferences and the space available in your garden.

Timing: Summer squash thrives in warm weather and should be planted after the last frost when the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F (16°C). In most areas, this means late spring.

Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Squash plants need plenty of room to grow, so ensure you have enough space to accommodate their spreading vines.

Soil Preparation: Summer squash prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Aim for a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage. Consider planting in raised beds with heavy clay soil to improve drainage.

Watering and Mulching: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants deeply at the base, avoiding overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or compost, around the plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing: Summer squash is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization. At planting time, mix a balanced fertilizer into the soil. Once the plants begin to flower, side-dress with a high-phosphorus fertilizer to encourage fruiting.

Harvesting: Harvest summer squash when young and tender for the best flavor. Zucchini and yellow squash are typically ready when 6-8 inches long, while pattypan squash can be picked when they are 2-3 inches in diameter. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the squash from the vine, being careful not to damage the plant.

Storing and Using Your Harvest: Freshly harvested summer squash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes, from stir-fries and casseroles to salads and baked goods.

Visit our blog for more tasty recipes and gardening tidbits!