Reflecting on 2025 with Gratitude and Compassion

As we close the chapter on 2025, our hearts are full of gratitude for the incredible community that surrounds Ryerss Farm. Friends, families, volunteers, and donors came together to support our mission of providing a peaceful, loving retirement for rescued and retired horses. Every visit, event, and act of generosity made a difference—bringing joy to our residents and to everyone who walked through our farm gates.

Here’s a look back at some of the moments that made 2025 so special:

2025 Event Highlights

Run for the Horses (April 12th)

Our 13th annual Run for the Horses welcomed 174 participants who ran or walked along our scenic cross-country course. After the race, participants enjoyed a celebration party and an award ceremony. Congratulations to the top three finishers of the 10K and 5K runs across various age categories.

Easter Egg Hunt (April 26th)

Families enjoyed our annual Easter Egg Hunt with three age-group hunts, special prize eggs, and a Raffle Basket for $5 per chance. Congratulations to Joann Schmaldinst, our raffle basket winner! Laughter, excitement, and farm magic filled the morning.

Meet & Greet with All 4 Paws Rescue (May 10th)

Guests met adorable dogs ready for adoption while enjoying the serene farm atmosphere, spending time with our horses, and exploring the gift shop—a paw-sitively perfect afternoon!

Summer Camp 

(Ages 5-9: June 16th-20th; Ages 10-15: August 4th-8th)

Campers explored life on the farm through hands-on horse care, hayrides, crop walks, daily chores, and crafts. Each child left with a deeper appreciation for our residents and the joys of farm life.

Dine and Donate Event at Brickside Grille (July 13th)

Guests dined with purpose as 20% of all sales were donated to Ryerss Farm. Delicious meals paired with a sense of community made for a meaningful afternoon supporting our horses.

Blessing of the Animals (October 4th)

Families celebrated the bond between humans and animals during a non-denominational service, with pets and our horses receiving individual blessings in the main barn.

"The Happiest Farm on Earth" Brunch & Gala (October 26th)

We celebrated our 137th Birthday with brunch, a photo contest, comedian Pat Rocchi, and lively live and silent auctions. The day was a joyful reminder of the generosity and dedication of our community.

Trick-or-Treat (November 1st)

Children dressed in costumes for candy, games, and horse-loving fun at our second annual Trick-or-Treat—an afternoon of festive farm fun for all ages.

Holiday Open House (December 6th)

Our annual Holiday Open House brought families together for cookies, hot chocolate, Santa photos, time with the horses, and holiday shopping in the gift shop—a warm close to a wonderful year.

Gratitude for Your Generosity

We are deeply thankful to every visitor, volunteer, donor, and sponsor who helped make 2025 so memorable. Your support allows our horses to enjoy peaceful, healthy retirements and ensures Ryerss Farm continues to be a place of joy and compassion. Visit our website to see the amazing sponsors who make it all possible.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we step into 2026, we look forward to welcoming you back for another year of heartwarming experiences at the farm. Stay tuned for exciting events ahead—our popular Family Fun Day will make its return! Whether through event attendance, donations, volunteering, or sharing our mission, every gesture helps us provide a loving home for our retired and rescued horses.

Together, we make a difference—one event, one kind act, and one moment of compassion at a time. Thank you for being an essential part of the Ryerss Farm family!