Castle Hill Farm, at 1 Sugar Lane, has announced that its seven-acre corn maze will open on Saturday, October 2, and run through November 7, on weekends, from 10 am to 5 pm. The annual corn maze has been a staple of the farm for more than 20 years and always has a different theme to it.

Stephanie (Paproski) Kearns, of Castle Hill Farm, said, “Our 2021 Corn Maze is themed ‘Happily Ever After.’ This is to recognize our farm for preserving and protecting this part of the property forever — not only for our family, but for the community to enjoy the farmland, too!”

In November 2020, Castle Hill Farm was awarded the protection of 31 of its acres by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Town of Newtown, and Connecticut Farmland Trust. The parcel of land will now legally be preserved for future generations and remain as farmland.

This year, a bird’s-eye view of the corn field shows an elaborate system of mazes that together create a wondrous castle fit for a king or queen.

Not only is the castle a play on words with the name of the farm, but inside the maze there are magical surprises for guests to discover.

“We have a fun hidden picture game throughout the maze that was custom-made with a castle and even includes a cartoon character of Farmer Charlotte and Fairy Caroline,” Kearns said. “We can’t wait to share it!”

Castle Hill Farm has been run by the Paproski family for more than 90 years, and the Farmer Charlotte and Fairy Caroline characters were inspired by Kearns’ two young daughters. The girls help their family at the farm and especially love caring for its animals.

Those stopping by to enjoy the corn maze can also check out the farm animal exhibit as well as the Sunflower Stroll and the farm stand that is open through October.

On weekends, there will be live music and a food truck each afternoon.

Also, to allow the corn maze experience to be safe and fun for all, the corn maze pathways have been modified for social distancing.

“Our corn maze paths are much wider this season — as they were last season — because of the pandemic,” Kearns said. “We also have some rooms and areas to stand while groups pass each other throughout the maze.”

Those interested in booking a private appointment to visit the corn maze with a group of ten or more people can contact Castle Hill Farm at castlehillfarmct@gmail.com or call 203-426-5487.

Corn Maze At Night

In addition to the corn maze being open each weekend, visitors can also enjoy the annual Flashlight Maze and Festival on October 30, from 6 to 9 pm. There will be a live band, food trucks, a bonfire, and a mobile taproom.

According to the event webpage, “Costumes are not required for entry, but are encouraged! All guests dressed up will receive a treat at the gate!”

For more information about Castle Hill Farm and other events happening on site, visit castlehillfarm.net.

Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.