Curiosity Farms: Unlocking the Future of Agriculture for the Next Generation

Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Utah, has unveiled its latest outdoor attraction, Curiosity Farms, after a decade of planning and two years of construction. This innovative agricultural hub promises to immerse children in the latest farming education and technology, inspiring them to pursue STEM fields and become the next generation of agricultural innovators.

Igniting a Spark for STEM and the Joy of Discovery

A Transformative Agricultural Experience

Curiosity Farms is more than just a traditional petting zoo; it's an "ag-tech center for kids," as described by Thanksgiving Point CEO McKay Christensen. The farm's mission is to provide children with hands-on experiences that will instill confidence in science, technology, and the wonders of modern agriculture. By exposing young minds to the cutting-edge advancements in farming, the hope is to ignite a lifelong passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Bridging the Gap Between Farming and Science

Curiosity Farms aims to showcase the intricate connection between animal care and scientific principles. "Farmers are the original scientists," explains Abby Allard, the communication manager for Thanksgiving Point. "They were measuring weather before there was meteorology, and they were testing and planting different things." By highlighting the scientific foundations of farming, the venue aims to inspire children to explore the multifaceted world of agriculture and its technological innovations.

Immersive Learning Experiences

At the heart of Curiosity Farms lies a wealth of interactive and engaging activities. Children can learn how to properly milk a cow, participate in a "tenderloin" game to match male and female cows, and even climb a 40-foot-tall alfalfa climber. These hands-on experiences are designed to captivate young minds and demonstrate the practical applications of science and technology in the agricultural realm.

Cutting-Edge Farming Technology on Display

One of the most impressive features of Curiosity Farms is the Grow Tech Gardens, where visitors can witness the future of agriculture. The venue boasts the ability to grow 10,000 heads of lettuce per month in a small space, using just 3% of the water typically required for traditional crop cultivation. This showcase of hydroponic and precision farming techniques aims to inspire children to explore the innovative solutions that are transforming the agricultural landscape.

Fostering a Love for Science and Technology

Thanksgiving Point's CEO, McKay Christensen, emphasizes the overarching goal of Curiosity Farms: "We hope that as kids come and participate in our programs here, they'll get excited about technology and science, and they'll enjoy the beauty and fun of Curiosity Farms." By blending hands-on learning, cutting-edge technology, and a sense of wonder, the venue aims to ignite a lifelong passion for STEM fields and the ever-evolving world of agriculture.

Exclusive Sneak Peek and Public Opening

Curiosity Farms will first open its doors to Thanksgiving Point members from Thursday through Saturday, offering an exclusive opportunity to experience the new venue. The general public will then have the chance to visit starting on September 30th. Anticipation is high, with Erica Brown, the chief marketing officer at Thanksgiving Point, estimating that the members-only dates could attract between 10,000 and 20,000 visitors, followed by several thousand on the public opening day.Curiosity Farms represents a transformative step in Thanksgiving Point's mission to inspire and educate the next generation of agricultural innovators. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology, hands-on learning, and a sense of wonder, this unique venue promises to ignite a spark in young minds, empowering them to explore the boundless possibilities of the agricultural industry and the STEM fields that drive its evolution.