Each fall, family farms all over New England invite us to come celebrate the harvest, hosting festivals and events throughout the season. The trend toward recreation, education, and outreach among America’s working farms makes fall the ideal time to show kids what “farm to table” is all about. Fall on the family farm is a true New England tradition. Here are three Newburyport-area farms that shouldn’t be missed as the leaves start changing and the pumpkins come out.

Russell Orchards (Ipswich). For over 35 years, Russell Orchards has welcomed visitors to its family-owned and -operated 120-acre fruit farm for a farm-to-table experience like no other. Pick-your-own apples available throughout the season (click here for tips). On weekends, you can access Russell Orchards’ picking fields by hayride! Kids can also visit with their barnyard animals and watch their signature cider donuts being made at the farm’s bakery. Russell Orchards’ expansive farm store features a wide range of locally sourced products. Wines and hard ciders made from the orchard’s own fruit are available for tasting Friday through Sunday.

Cider Hill Farm (Amesbury). Weekends through mid-October, celebrate fall at Cider Hill Farm with hayrides, apple picking, hundreds of pumpkins, hot cider donuts, and fresh-pressed apple cider. Cider Hill Farm is a perennial favorite among local families seeking to pick the perfect pumpkin for Halloween.

Marini Farm Corn Maze (Ipswich). This family-owned and -operated vegetable farm in Ipswich boasts a giant maze of “trails’” cut through 8 acres of living cornstalks (click here for an inside look). There is also a mini-maze for the little ones. The maze area also features a large children’s play area stocked with climbing structures, inflatable slides, and a 70-foot jumping pillow. Apple cannons and hayrides are available on the weekends (weather permitting). The corn maze, farm stand and bakery, pumpkin patch, and other attractions provide a great destination for families.

Now that it’s officially “fall,” family farms are ready to celebrate the harvest season. Get outside and enjoy!

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