Autumn in the 1800s: Heritage Farm Family Day

About this event

Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Step back in time and discover what life was like on a North Carolina farm in the 1800s!

Bring the whole family to Cape Fear Botanical Garden for hands-on activities, traditional crafts, demonstrations, and old-fashioned fun in our Hazel McCauley Heritage Garden Complex.

Explore the historic farmhouse, general store, tobacco barn, and traditional crops as you discover how families lived, worked, and played generations ago. From making everyday necessities to growing and preparing food, you’ll get a firsthand look at the skills, traditions, and resourcefulness that shaped rural communities.

Activities and Demonstrations

• Candlemaking and cornhusk dolls

• Butter churning

• Quilt making and turkey crafts

• Log hewing and chinking demonstrations

• Traditional toys and outdoor games

• Farmhouse storytime

• Dress-up and tractor photo opportunities

• Hayrides

• Tobacco history presentation

• Historic farmhouse and general store exploration

A Taste of the Past

Sample traditional foods, including Brunswick stew and corn on the cob cooked over fire coals.

Whether you’re trying your hand at a historic craft, enjoying a hayride, or discovering how everyday items were made, there’s something for every generation to enjoy.

Admission and Event Details

All Heritage Farm Family Day activities are included with regular Garden admission and are FREE for Garden members.

We encourage guests to purchase admission tickets in advance for a quicker, easier check-in when they arrive. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the Garden on the day of the event.

Weather Notice: In the event of inclement weather, Autumn in the 1800s will be rescheduled. Follow Cape Fear Botanical Garden on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Come make new family memories while discovering the traditions of the past!

From Hort Team