Several families celebrated Father’s Day by picking fresh strawberries at the Iowa Orchard in Granger. The orchard is one of the largest strawberry farms in Iowa, and this week marks the peak of the strawberry season.
The farm offers six acres of strawberries ready for picking. Owner Bryan Etchen said this year’s crop is the largest they have ever had.
Usually, visitors need to make appointments online to pick strawberries. However, the orchard made exceptions for holidays like Father’s Day. On Sunday, many walk-in guests were welcomed, allowing several fathers to spend quality time with their families.
“Nothing is better than fresh strawberries and a bowl of ice cream,” said Frank Peters, a father from Ankeny who picked strawberries with his wife and daughter.
Some visitors come regularly, like Isai Sipe from Guthrie Center. She has picked strawberries every year with her sister, and together they made homemade strawberry jam. This season is her first without her sister, who passed away.
“This is what keeps me going,” Sipe said. “I can feel her out here with me.”
For those unable to pick strawberries themselves, the orchard sells pre-picked strawberries at their location in Urbandale.
Besides fresh fruit, the orchard offers snacks such as mini cider donuts, strawberry apple cider slushies, and strawberry donut shortcake.
The Iowa Orchard is open daily, weather permitting. Visitors can schedule appointments online for strawberry picking.
