Shinn Estate Vineyard in Mattituck is hosting a series of educational “Summer Family Days” this season with each event focused on farming and science.
The events aim to teach children and their parents about the natural elements of the world and Shinn’s farming practices, the vineyard’s owner said.
“We’d really like to highlight our holistic view and philosophy as part of each family day,” said Barbara Shinn, owner and viticulturist.
Proceeds from all Family Days, which cost $25 for one child and $50 for two or more, benefit the Peconic Community School, where Ms. Shinn serves on the board. Family members are invited to participate free of cost.
The farm has hosted students from the Aquebogue school in the past, educating young learners about holistic and biodynamic farming on field trips to the vineyard.
The events will take place two Sundays a month beginning this week and continuing through August from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The learning experience is for children ages 6 to 12. For reservations, which are required, call 631-804-0367 or email [email protected].
Shinn Estate Vineyards is located at 2000 Oregon Road in Mattituck.
JUNE 12
WEEDS ARE OUR FRIENDS
“Fascinate yourself with the world of flowering plants as we reveal top secrets of vineyard flowers and the work weeds do. Learn how to keep pet weeds. Yes, weeds!”
JUNE 26
BEE-LIEVE IT ADVENTURES — A BEE TOUR
“Discover the beauty of a pollinator habitat and listen to our special guest Tom’s Honey Bees share more about bees. We will visit our vineyard hives and observe our bee highway.”
JULY 10
SHINN CHICKENS — YOUNG PEOPLE AND CHICKENS AS FRIENDS
“Come to Shinn Estate Vineyards and listen to special guests Olivia and Max Geppel of 8 Hands Farm share about raising chickens on a farm or even in your own back yard. Why does a chicken lay an egg? Learn how to walk like a chicken. Olivia and Max work their farm daily with their parents Carol and Tom raising chickens, pigs, sheep and delicious vegetables.”
JULY 24
A WALK UNDER THE CLOUDS — LEARN ABOUT CLOUDS
“Look up to observe clouds in the sky above our vineyard rows. Learn how clouds are part of Father Sky’s gift of rain to Mother Earth.”
AUGUST 14
CUTE CRITTERS — ANIMALS AND INSECTS IN THE WILD
“Explore the vineyard rows to find critters hiding that help promote great soil conditions for farming. We’ll see worms, ants, groundhogs and more.”
AUGUST 28
FUN FACTS ABOUT BIRDS — A MORNING WITH OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS
“Come and listen to Debbie O’Kane from the North Fork Audubon Society tell us about birds in our ecosystem. Observe the many species of North Fork birds that linger close to the vines and overhead.”