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From Visitor to Host: Babies & Brunch Reflections

April 2nd, 2025


Rain clouds gathered overhead as we welcomed visitors to our annual Babies & Brunch last weekend, but nothing—not even a brief tornado siren —could dampen the joyful energy of seeing children and adults alike connect with our goat kids. This year, we were ready! We transformed our red shed into a farm store with a cheese sampling station, created a special interactive pen in one of the kid barns, and Caprae was open to welcome hungry brunchers.


Full Circle Moments

There's something particularly meaningful about hosting an event that I once experienced as a visitor. Back in 2013, I brought my two young sons to this very farm for the same spring tradition. I can still picture it clearly—a typical Midwest spring weekend: rain-soaked paths, muddy boots, and that persistent early spring chill. But once we stepped into the warm barn filled with playful kids, none of that mattered.

My youngest, just two years old then, was completely enamored with the goats. I remember the impossible task of telling a toddler not to jump in puddles (you just have to go with it!) and standing in line for that special treat—warm goat milk hot chocolate that somehow tasted better than any other hot chocolate we'd ever had.

Looking back through old photos, I discovered one that especially tugged at my heart—both my boys meeting Blue, the beloved farm dog who was a fixture here for years. These layers of memory—the animals, the people, the place—weave together to create the rich tapestry of farm life that keeps drawing us back.

What felt like stress in the moment—muddy clothes, damp socks, managing excited children—has transformed over time into one of our most cherished family memories.


My boys meeting Blue (2013) Meeting goats for the 1st time (2013) Goat Milk 'Stache! (2013)


Creating New Memories

Now, I find myself on the other side of the experience, watching families create their own special moments. I hope our guests attending a Babies & Brunch event are building memories that will warm their hearts for years to come—complete with mud puddles, curious goats, and yes, delicious goat milk hot chocolate!

It was truly a pleasure meeting everyone who visited, from first-timers to our regular farm friends. Each conversation reminded me of the special community that surrounds this farm and the connections that grow here alongside our goats and gardens.

One couple shared that they had quietly gotten engaged here last fall, and listening to their story filled my heart—this farm had become part of their own family story. Others excitedly recounted their goat encounters: kids nibbling on jacket zippers, boldly leaping from straw bales, or settling contentedly in laps for cuddles. These moments of joy and connection are exactly why we open our farm to visitors—to create spaces where lasting memories take root.

If you joined us this past weekend, thank you for being part of our farm story. And if you missed this round, don't worry—we have more Babies & Brunch weekends coming up on April 6-7 and April 13-14. I hope to meet you soon and perhaps hear about your own full-circle farm moments!

Christina Asklund

Farm Manager, Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery



Upcoming Events

Babies & Brunch

Babies and Brunch 2025

Spots are filling fast for our most anticipated spring event!

Each 90-minute experience includes:

- Reserved table at Caprae

- Guided baby goat cuddle session

- Hot chocolate bar

- Cheese sampling


Available Dates:

April 5-6, April 12-13

Event Times: 9 AM, 11 AM, or 1 PM


Important Notes:

  • Your ticket includes a reservation of a table at Caprae, but dining is optional - you're welcome to enjoy just the goat experience if preferred

  • Brunch service is optional and purchased separately from your event ticket

  • Tickets provide admission to the farm (for 90 minutes) on your event date

    • Advanced tickets required - walk-ins may be permitted only if time slots aren't sold out

Reserve your spot here


Spring Fling on the Farm

Join us on Sunday, April 27th, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM for a day dedicated to celebrating local producers, artisans, and the vibrant agricultural community that makes Central Illinois special. More details to come!

Event Details:

  • Date: Sunday, April 27th

  • Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

  • Location: Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery, 4410 N Lincoln Ave, Champaign, IL

  • Admission: FREE


2025 Farm-to-Table Dinner Series

Experience magical summer evenings at the farm May through October! Your evening begins with drinks, followed by an optional farm tour and a spectacular 4-6 course seasonal meal featuring partnerships with local farmers and food artisans.

Get tickets here


Farm Tours

We now offer weekly farm tours every Friday at 3:30 pm

Join us every Friday at 3:30 PM for a behind-the-scenes tour of Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery—a working, regenerative dairy farm in the heart of the prairie.

- $10 per person

- 60-minute tour including cheese sampling

-Tours check in at the red barn

Tickets can be purchased here Walk-ups are welcome based on space


Now accepting requests for private group tours throughout 2025:

- $10 per person

- 60-minute tour including cheese sampling

- Groups of 10-25 people (larger groups by special request)

- Special rates for local K-12 schools and UIUC VetMed groups


Fill out our interest form here or email office@prairiefruitsfarm.com



Spring Kid Reservations Now Open!

Since 2004, we've been dedicated to raising exceptional dairy goats with a focus on quality, health, and sustainable practices. Our herd carries the prestigious "Animal Welfare Approved" certification (since 2010), reflecting our commitment to superior pasture-based livestock practices.

What Sets Our Goats Apart

  • Focus on soundness, conformation, and high milk components

  • Strong show record at county and state fairs

  • Perfect for both dairy operations and Boer goat crossbreeding

  • Proven success with farmers and 4-H youth across multiple states

Health & Registration

  • American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) registered

  • Annual negative testing for CAE, CL, and Johne's since 2005

  • Complete milk records through AgSource DHI (2007-present)

  • Full documentation provided for registration

For Buyers

  • Bill of Sale and tattoo information provided

  • Crossbreeds eligible for "Experimental Grade" ADGA registration

  • Individual milk records available on ADGA website

  • Support available throughout the purchase process

Interested in adding quality genetics to your herd? Contact us at Rose@prairiefruitsfarm.com to learn more about our 2025 kids or reserve your goat here!



Find Us at a Local Farmers' Market & Grocery

Lisa at the CU Winter Farmers Market
Lisa at the CU Winter Farmers Market

This week the creamery is swimming in Chevre, Angel Food is ripening nicely, and a batch of Ukrainian Farmers Cheese and Little Bloom was made. Available at the markets this weekend: Chevre, Feta, Moonglo wedges, goat milk yogurt and Little Bloom.


You can find us throughout the winter:

  • Every Saturday through April

  • Lincoln Square Mall

  • Hosted by The Land Connection

  • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • The market is every third Saturday, November to April.

  • Grossinger Motors Arena

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Martinelli's Market-Bloomington:

Find Our Cheese at These Retailers

Our award-winning cheeses are available at these fine retailers:

  • Martinelli's Market (Champaign)

  • Martinelli's Market (Bloomington)

  • Pekara Bakery and Bistro (Champaign)

  • Common Ground Food Coop (Urbana)

  • Harvest Market (Champaign)

  • Green Top Grocery (Bloomington)

  • Fresh Thyme Farmers Market (St Louis and Chicago Locations)

  • The Village Farmstand (Evanston)


For wholesale inquiries, contact Christina at office@prairiefruitsfarm.com


 

Prairie Fruits Farm & Caprae Restaurant Hours

Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual evening out, Caprae welcomes you with our blend of farm-to-table cuisine and warm hospitality. Our cozy dining room and friendly staff create the perfect atmosphere for any gathering.

Hours & Service

  • Tuesday-Friday: 4-9 PM Dinner

  • Saturday: 11 AM-4 PM Lunch 4 PM-9 PM Dinner

  • Sunday: 9 AM-2 PM Brunch (Bar open until 4 PM)

  • Bar service includes craft drinks, cheese plates, and gelato

  • Casual service: Check in with the bartender upon arrival

Seating Options

  • Indoor dining room

  • Outdoor patio (weather permitting)

Reservations are appreciated but not required - book through Tock.

Note: Goat visiting temporarily paused to ensure our does get proper rest before birthing


Follow us on social media for specials and updates!


 

As the days grow longer and warmer, we invite you to experience spring's renewal at Prairie Fruits Farm. From baby goats to fresh cheese to emerging gardens, there's something new to discover each day!


*During all open hours, guests can explore our marked trails, visit the goats, and enjoy meals or beverages in our pavilion or on the lawns. Our staff is always happy to chat about our farm, goats, and cheese-making process.


*Please note: No outside food or pets are allowed. All activities are weather-permitting.


Follow us on  Facebook and Instagram, for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at farm life during the seasons.

 
 
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