Join us on December 7th for the much-anticipated Holiday at the Farm event at MSU's Tollgate Farm! This enchanting one-day celebration runs from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, offering a perfect opportunity for families to embrace the joy of the holiday season surrounded by nature and adorable farm animals. Experience the magic of the holidays with delightful hayrides through picturesque landscapes, where laughter and cheer fill the air.

At Holiday at the Farm, families can capture unforgettable memories with special holiday picture opportunities, including a chance to meet the one and only Santa Claus! Children of all ages will be thrilled by the variety of adorable animals they can interact with, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone. Additionally, the event features an array of fun crafts designed for kids, encouraging creativity and festive spirit as they make their own holiday treasures.

Admission for this joyful event is just $10, and the best part is that children aged 2 and under can join in on the fun for free! So gather your loved ones and head over to MSU's Tollgate Farm for a day filled with holiday cheer, laughter, and cherished moments.

Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories as you celebrate the season together!

We want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt wishes to Roy, Ellen, and Deb.

Their unwavering dedication to both the farm and the educational programs has left an indelible mark on our community. Their passion and hard work have not only enriched our experiences but have also inspired countless individuals to embrace the beauty of learning and agricultural practices.

We recently had the immense pleasure of celebrating their impactful journey at Tollgate with a well-attended open house, where friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honor their contributions and share fond memories. While their physical presence may be moving on, their legacy of commitment and excellence will always resonate within the community they have nurtured. We look forward to witnessing the bright paths they will carve ahead and know that they will continue to inspire others wherever they go.

Farewell to Tollgate Farm: A New Chapter for Gary Goodridge.

As the sun set on Gary's remarkable 12-year journey with Tollgate Farm, he embraced a bittersweet farewell marked by laughter, nostalgia, and a tuxedo that symbolized the joy he brought to countless children. His last educational tour with a spirited group of second graders from Walled Lake was a testament to his dedication, culminating in over 500 tours that spanned from preschoolers to newly arrived refugee groups. Each experience left an indelible mark on Gary's heart, creating some of the most meaningful memories of his life. As he stood amidst the familiar sights and sounds of Tollgate, he reflected on the love and respect he has for all the students, teachers, chaperones, and farm staff who have been a part of his journey.

While Gary may no longer be a member of the Education Team at Tollgate, his connection to the farm will continue through his hopes of volunteering at future events. His passion for education and nurturing curiosity in young minds will undoubtedly shine through in every interaction. As he steps into the next phase of life, Gary has an exciting array of new endeavors on the horizon. Alongside his part-time bookkeeping job—now in its 13th year—he plans to tackle household projects like painting the interior of his home. When not wielding a paintbrush, he aims to refine his golf game and master techniques on his drum set, ever the enthusiast for personal growth.

In addition to honing his hobbies, Gary is looking forward to a thrilling trip to Mexico, where he hopes to soak up new experiences and cultures. The progress of his two children at Michigan State University and Western Michigan University fills him with pride, reminding him of the joys of parenthood and the importance of lifelong learning. Even with a packed schedule, Gary is ready to explore the growing trend of Pickleball, eager to embrace the joy of this energetic sport. As he embarks on this new chapter, Gary's life remains full and vibrant, with countless opportunities to learn, grow, and share his love for life, just as he did at Tollgate Farm.

Tollgate Farm is excited to announce that we are actively seeking sponsors for our annual Maplefest fundraiser, happening on March 8th-9th, 2025.

Now in its 11th year, Maplefest is a beloved community-wide event that draws visitors of all ages, creating an excellent platform for local businesses and organizations to showcase their brands. By partnering with us, sponsors not only gain exposure to a diverse audience but also contribute to supporting essential agriculture-based programs that provide hands-on, experiential learning opportunities at Tollgate Farm.

Attendees will immerse themselves in the fascinating world of maple production, from tapping trees to witnessing the sugar shack operation, all while enjoying delicious maple-infused treats. Join us in celebrating this sweet winter tradition and make a meaningful impact on our community by becoming a valued sponsor of Maplefest 2025!

Email Lisa Bahm for more information: bahmlisa@msu.edu

Picture of the month!

All of our lambs and their moms are doing fine here at the farm, and it truly warms our hearts to see them thriving in the lush pastures. Each day brings new adventures as the little ones frolic about, exploring their surroundings with innocent curiosity while their mothers keep a watchful eye. The bond between the lambs and their moms is a beautiful sight, showcasing the essence of farm life.

A special thanks to Destiny for capturing this precious moment with such an awesome picture.

Hosting your next meeting or event at historic Tollgate Farm offers a unique and charming backdrop that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and rich history, our farm provides both indoor and outdoor spaces perfectly suited for any occasion, from corporate retreats to family gatherings. Imagine exchanging ideas in a serene, peaceful environment, surrounded by natural beauty that inspires creativity and collaboration.

With our dedicated team ready to assist with every detail, you can focus on what truly matters—connecting with your attendees. Don’t miss the opportunity to make your event unforgettable; book now for 2025 by calling (248) 347-3860 ext 200, and let us help you create a memorable experience at Tollgate Farm!