Sharing the Spirit of Christmas: Our 2026 Canned Food Drive

The date has been set for the 2026 Christmas Canned Food Drive at Star Hill Family Farm, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome our friends, neighbors, and families back for this special holiday tradition!

On Saturday, December 19, we’re welcoming families to the farm for a day dedicated to celebrating Christmas, making memories, and lending a helping hand to people in our surrounding communities.

For many families, visiting Star Hill Family Farm has become an annual Christmas tradition. Whether it’s choosing the perfect Christmas tree, enjoying a horse-drawn wagon ride, or watching the excitement on a child’s face when they see Santa, we’re grateful to share these moments with you year after year. Our Christmas Canned Food Drive gives us an opportunity to make those traditions even more meaningful.

A Little Christmas Magic for a Good Cause

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be joining us inside our wood-stove-heated barn to read traditional Christmas stories to children and families.

Story readings are scheduled for 11 AM, 12:30 PM, 2 PM, and 3:30 PM.

Instead of an admission fee, we’re simply asking everyone to bring one or more canned food items per person.

All donations will benefit the food pantry at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wethersfield.

The pantry provides food to both members and non-members in need throughout the surrounding communities. By contributing even a few canned goods, you’ll be helping support an organization that provides an important resource for our neighbors.

Christmas Traditions and Family Activities

We hope you’ll make a day of it!

Families are welcome to enjoy our holiday activities, visit and feed our farm animals, and meet four adorable miniature American Park cows joining us this year! Children can participate in festive activities, and families can capture special holiday memories at our designated photo locations.

You can also browse our selection of locally grown Christmas trees and handmade wreaths.

And what would a Christmas visit be without a few seasonal treats? We’ll have fresh gourmet donuts, hot coffee, apple cider, and hot cocoa available for purchase, perfect for enjoying during a chilly December day.

These family activities are available at no additional charge.

Horse-drawn wagon rides will also be available, but require separate tickets purchased online in advance at www.starhillfamilyfarm.com/wagon.

Helping Our Neighbors, One Can at a Time

The holidays are a time for giving, and sometimes the simplest gestures can make a meaningful difference.

Our family and staff are thankful for the support we’ve received from the Portland community and families throughout Connecticut. Hosting this event is one small way we can give something back.

We invite you to join us on December 19, from 10 AM to 5 PM, at Star Hill Family Farm, 819 Glastonbury Turnpike in Portland, Connecticut.

Bring the family, bring a canned good, and help us share a little extra Christmas spirit this year!