March 27th, 2025
The morning light filters through the barn windows, casting long shadows across the straw-covered floor where newborn kids take their first wobbly steps. I pause to witness this small miracle – one of hundreds that have unfolded since we became stewards of Prairie Fruits Farm over a year ago. I'm Christina, one of the Farm Managers here at Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery. Last fall, I took over this blog from farm founder Leslie, stepping into some pretty big shoes. While you may have seen me around the farm or met me at the farmers market, I wanted to take this moment to share some reflections on our first full cycle of seasons as new stewards.
Seeds and Seasons
When we arrived last February, the land was still in a winter slumber, and the does were heavy with kids. Everything felt both fragile and full of potential. We carried dreams in our pockets like seeds, not yet knowing which would take root and which would need to be replanted.
That first kidding season tested us in ways we couldn't have anticipated. Between farm renovations, learning the rhythms of a working dairy, and the countless surprises that nature inevitably delivers, there were moments when doubt crept in like evening shadows across the pasture.
Yet here we stand a year later, watching a thriving herd, witnessing the creamery produce its first spring chèvre, and seeing Ian's careful Fall plantings beginning to show promise. The seeds we planted – some literal, many figurative – are breaking through the soil.
The Heartbeat of the Farm
People often ask what makes this corner of the prairie so special. It's a question I've contemplated while watching spectacular sunsets paint the sky above our pastures, during predawn Farmers Market loading, and in quiet moments sampling cheese that captures the essence of our land.
The answer, I've realized, lies in the interconnectedness of everything here.
Our goats transform prairie grasses into milk. Our cheesemakers transform that milk into creations that bring joy to tables across the region. The whey returns to the land as fertilizer. Nothing is wasted; everything has a purpose.
This natural cycle extends beyond production. When visitors from nearby schools experience their first encounter with a farm animal, when families gather around tables at Caprae to share meals crafted from ingredients with stories, and when volunteers forge bonds while bottle-feeding kids – the farm becomes more than a place. It becomes a living relationship between land, animals, and community.
Looking Forward
A year of stewardship has taught us that sustainable farming isn't just about environmental practices – though those remain central to our mission. It's equally about sustaining the people who make this work possible: our dedicated staff who arrive before dawn to milk the herd, our volunteers who show up faithfully during kidding season, Cheesemaker Kato who transforms our goat milk into award-winning cheese, and you – our extended farm family who choose to support local agriculture.
The challenges haven't disappeared. Weather remains unpredictable, regulatory hurdles complex, and the economics of small-scale farming persistently difficult. But our purpose has deepened with each passing season.
We're not just raising goats or making cheese. We're preserving a way of life that connects people to their food, their land, and each other. We're creating a space where the modern world slows down just enough to remember what matters. And we're building something that, with care and commitment, will nourish this community long after our time as stewards has passed.
As spring unfolds around us with each new kid, each cheese make, each apple blossom, I find myself filled with a quiet certainty. This work matters. This place matters. And together, we're writing a story of resilience, connection, and hope – one season at a time.
Upcoming Events
Babies & Brunch
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:
March 29-30, 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
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 3:30pm
First tour starts this Friday!
- $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
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:
212 N Center St, Bloomington
Saturdays 7:30 AM - 12 PM
Special orders available through store staff or office@prairiefruitsfarm.com
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.