Some land is just destined to be used to bring smiles to people's faces. To produce something that is a signifier of optimisim and fun.
Such is the land at the fantastic Castletaylor estate, not far from Ardrahan in South Galway. It is the home of Ardrahan woman Caroline Whelan and her husband Gerry Quinn. Caroline made a name for herself as a fearless broadcast and print journalist before opting for a more organic way of living, turning her farm into a use that its original owners could never have envisaged.
Every autumn, thousands make their way there for the annual Halloween treat that is the Galway Pumpkin Patch, but the enterprising Caroline and Gerry, never ones to let the grass grow under their feet, have now come up with a spectacular use for the land in the summer season.
Such is the demand to visit Galway Pumpkin Patch, it has sold out every year since its launch in 2018. Acres upon acres covered in pumpkins. Fun and games made out in the style of the old farm fairs, wholesome cups of tea, coffee and hot chocolates as all the family work together in a good old-fashioned agricultural enterprise.
Galway's first Pick Your Own Sunflower Event is the result of their collaboration and will take place in August. There is something about sunflowers that is infectious — In a field of sunflowers such as this one in Castletaylor, time slows down, allowing you to savour the present moment. The world feels lighter, troubles seem distant, and a contagious happiness permeates your being.
It is a reminder that sometimes, all we need is a simple connection with nature to restore our spirits and remind us of the sheer joy of being alive. It is for all these reasons Caroline and Gerry set about their summer plan.
She told the Advertiser that she believes there is no reason that Galway Sunflower Picking will not be as popular as the pumpkin patch, but with a slightly different dynamic.
New adventure
"We are very excited about this, it's a new adventure and we hope the sunflowers will draw a mix of all ages.
"There's nothing as beautiful, cheerful and uplifting as a sunflower - so come along and pick a bunch for yourself.
"This year we have sown two acres, so there will be plenty for everybody." she said, as she walked the land, waiting on the crop to emerge so they can announce the exact opening dates, but social media will be updated regularly with the breaking or blooming news.
"We can't say for sure as yet when they will arrive. In a way, that's the beauty of it really, isn't it, but they seem to be coming along well and it will be sometime in August.
"Hopefully we will get a bit of fine weather. They need a bit of sun to bloom and as always, the weather is the biggest challenge to running anything outdoors in Ireland.
"July hasn't been great so August will hopefully be better," she laughed, crossing her fingers.
So what can people expect if they go to visit Galway Sunflower Picking or indeed Galway Pumpkin Patch, which is located about 30 mins from the city, three miles from Ardrahan village.
Walking amidst the towering sunflowers, their faces turned towards the sun, you cannot help but be mesmerized. Their cheery countenances, resplendent in hues of vibrant yellow and deep gold, seem to radiate happiness and optimism. It's as if each blossom carries the sun's warmth within it
"We are in a beautiful, rural location, and are all about offering something a little bit different - as far as I am aware, nothing like this has taken place in Galway before," said Caroline.
"We are big on three things — enjoyment, pricing and authenticity. We offer a simplistic, rustic experience that encourages young and old to come and enjoy the great outdoors.
"We work very hard to keep the price point competitive as a lot of events are expensive nowadays," she said.
"If you feel you're overpaying before you even attend, it's hard to enjoy it. We try not to complicate things.
"People are generally happy with the simple things — fresh air and space - and we certainly have plenty of that," she said.
"So come along and make some memories. We have lots of lovely picture opportunities in the Sunflower Field. There will also be plenty of seating and tea, coffee and sweet treats.' On a final note she reminded us to not come emptyhanded.
"It may seem obvious but you need to bring something that can cut the stems, so don't forget your snips," she said.
For more information about Galway Sunflower Picking, check out www.galwaypumpkinpatch.ie, and follow Galway Pumpkin Patch on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates.
