Bloom Hill Farms highlights dahlia season with upcoming events

Bloom Hill Farms celebrated dahlia season with its annual Dahlia Fest on Sunday, Sept. 14, at its You-Pick Farm, 1818 Lake Center St. NW. Guests strolled the flower fields, picked their own blooms, shopped from more than 55 local artisans, and enjoyed food trucks, kids’ activities and live music by Ceci Taylor.

“This is one of Bloom Hill Farm’s favorite events each year as there is nothing like the fields in bloom in September,” said owner Shannon Allen.

The centerpiece of the festival was the farm’s 20,000 dahlia plants. Attendees could choose a standard You-Pick cup for $30, which held about 25 stems and five dahlias, or a dahlia-only cup for $50. Admission for those who toured the fields without picking was $5; children 3 and under were free. Dahlia Fest attendees also received an exclusive discount code for future purchases.

Additional fall events include a hands-on floral design workshop Sept. 26, beginning at 5 p.m., where participants can tour the farm, pick flowers and learn design techniques ($85 per ticket). A special Date Night You Pick is planned for Friday, Sept. 19, at 5:30 p.m. Couples will receive a tour, pick a bucket of flowers valued at $100, and have five professional photos taken in the fields by Kelly Weatherwax Photography. The price is $130 per couple.

The Lake Center Street farm, the Allens’ second property, also includes space for events and Bloom Cottage, a flower-themed Airbnb rental. Judd and Shannon Allen began Bloom Hill Farms as a hobby that has grown into a thriving specialty cut flower business with farm events, market sales, grocery partnerships and subscription services.

The farm recently held a ribbon-cutting with the Lake Township Chamber of Commerce on Aug. 21, 2024. “We want to take a moment to recognize the true heart and soul of this farm, our amazing employees,” the Allens said. “This group pours so much love into the farm, supports us through the ups and downs of farming, and is always cheering us on. We could not do it without them.”

For more information on events and flower sales, visit the farm’s website or Facebook page.