Nebraska City, Neb. (April 14, 2011) – When you visit Arbor Day Farm this month, don't forget your camera. Just in time for Easter, beautiful, pink apple blossoms are expected to fill the Farm's orchards, says orchards manager Erik Olson.
Olson predicts the apple trees will be in full bloom on or about April 20 at both Arbor Day Farm and Kimmel Orchard.
"Traveling to Nebraska City to experience the sights and scents of the apple orchards in bloom has long been a tradition for Nebraskans," Olson said. "The blossoms should be full and vibrant this spring, and when the orchard is in full bloom it really is something to see."
Depending on the weather, the blooms should be on the apple trees until about April 27, Olson said. Visitors to Arbor Day Farm can take the Discovery Ride from the Tree Adventure through the orchards at 2 p.m. daily from April 20-27. Cost for the Tree Adventure is $6.50 for adults, $4.50 for children ages 3-12 and free for children 2 and under.
If the sight of the blooms has you craving apples, don't worry. The Apple House and Pie Garden will feature apple pie and apple cider slushies. In addition, the Apple House will feature the debut of the 2010 Arbor Day Farm wines available for tasting.
The Tree Adventure also has special Easter weekend activities for children and families on April 23-24. Children can participate in a Seek and Discover Egg Hunt, in which they use clues and a map to make their way from egg to egg along the forest trails. Children will also have the opportunity to pet and hold chicks and bunnies.
Lied Lodge is offering a special Easter brunch from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. The brunch includes breakfast items, roast prime rib of Nebraska, apple wood smoked turkey breast, California gulf shrimp scampi, roast leg of lamb, salads and desserts. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling (402) 873-8740.
Visitors to Kimmel Orchard can take a scenic walk through the apple orchard. In addition, the peach, plum, cherry and pear trees should be in bloom at Kimmel Orchard.
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About the Arbor Day Foundation: The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit, conservation and education organization of more than 1 million members, with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. More information on the Foundation and its programs can be found at arborday.org.