Food Finds at Linvilla Orchards in Media, Pennsylvania

Although open year-round, Linvilla Orchards is often defined by their fall harvest season. Linvilla sits on a quiet 300 acre farm in the heart of Delaware County, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of nearby Route 1 and the Granite Run Mall. As October nears, the farm sees apple harvests and readies itself for the annual transformation into Pumpkinland.

The fall harvest festival features attractions including giant Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, child-friendly haunted hayrides, pick-your-own produce and a near endless array of Halloween-themed activities. No trip to Linvilla could be complete without a visit to their petting zoo. Animal residents including horses, feral deer, goats, sheep and some rather large and plump rabbits. You will also find several species of wild turkey and exotic birds.

Linvilla also offers a choice of themed hayrides that are age-appropriate. There is a light-hearted, "Ride to the Witch's House" and a somewhat more grown-up version called the "Harvest Moon Hayride". The Witch's ride commences with a visit to a friendly witch's house who tells jokes, offers a Halloween story then hands out free cookies. Afterwards, there's a marshmallow roast around an open fire.

Eight years ago, Linvilla Orchards lost their signature octagonal barn. The century-old structure was nearly destroyed when fire swept through the building, leaving only some stone supports standing. Work at Linvilla quickly resumed-- fields were harvested and temporary tents were set up to sell their produce and other goods. Within six weeks of the fire, a new store had opened adjacent to the site of the old barn which the family hopes to rebuild in the near future.

Linvilla Orchard's food finds include their store-baked pumpkin, apple, blueberry and blackberry pies. Linvilla's is also well known in the region for their apple cider. A deep, richly flavored brew, it is simply without comparison.

Not to be missed, it another Linvilla Orchards seasonal favorite, the apple-cider doughnuts. If you've never tried apple-cider doughnuts, you're in for a true treat. Wander the grounds and look for other seasonal classics like homemade candies and caramel apples. There is literally something for everyone at Linvilla.

While seeking out and discovering the farm's eclectic food finds, you can rest assured that there's no shortage of pumpkins at Linvilla Orchards. The Orchard boasts harvesting in excess of 100 tons of pumpkins each year. The bright orange orbs come in every size, shape and variety imaginable, offering an endless array of carving, backing and decorating options.

When planning plenty your visit to Linvilla Orchards, make sure to allow sufficient time to check out all the the farm has to offer. The store is open 7 days a week. During the fall, hours are 9-8:00pm Sunday through Thursday and 9-9:00pm on Friday and Saturday.

Linvilla Orchards is located at 137 W Knowlton Rd in Media, PA. For more information, check out Linvilla Orchard's website at: www.LinvillaOrchards.com