Sheep and Wool Day features family fun

GLENMOORE » The sheep are losing their winter wool, and you’re invited to the shearing! Chester County Facilities & Park’s annual Sheep & Wool Day will be held today from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Springton Manor Farm in Glenmoore.

The highlight of Sheep and Wool Day, the annual shearing of the herd, takes place throughout the day and includes commentary on how the woolen fleece is used. In addition to the shearing, many attractions are featured including a show with Jungle John and his reptile and insect friends; the Grist Mill Farm Alpacas; a mobile agricultural science lab; herding dog demonstrations; wool spinning, carding and weaving demonstrations; and butter churning demonstrations.

Springton Manor Farm’s Great Barn will be open, featuring the popular baby farm animals and agricultural museum. Penn State Extension and 4-H Clubs will provide pony, milking goats, cows and swine displays, and the Chester County Animal Response Team (CART) will show how they prepare for emergencies and disasters affecting animals. The Chester County Food Bank’s raised bed garden partnership with Springton Manor Farm will also be showcased.

Wagon rides through Springton Manor Farm’s scenic 300 acres run throughout the day and there will be familyfriendly exhibits and vendors, from face painting, craft making and children’s games and races to “meet Smokey Bear,” the Mill at Anselma and Safe Kids Chester County. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch or grab a meal from a selection of food vendors

Sheep & Wool Day will be held light rain or shine. No pets permitted at the event. Parking is $5 per car; admission and all activities are free. Vendors will have products for sale and an ATM will be on site.

Springton Manor Farm, a working demonstration farm operated by Chester County Facilities & Parks, is located five miles west of Downingtown, off Route 322 in Glenmoore. For more information call the park at 610-942-2450 or visit www. chesco.org/parks.