03/12/2026
As the seasons change here in Hillsdale, Oliver’s Acres is now officially closed for the season. We will reopen this fall when the apples return to the trees.
For those already asking, the first early apple varieties in Hillsdale typically start showing up in late August, and we cannot wait to welcome you all back when the orchard begins producing again.
Before we close the gate for a few months, I want to say something from the heart.
Thank you. Truly.
This year was a big one for us. From U-Cut Christmas trees to our Friday and Saturday markets, you really showed up. Seeing families come out, meeting neighbors, and watching people gather here reminded us exactly why small farms and markets matter so much.
The truth is, we learned a lot this year.
Owen really volun told us to open the market, and that decision led to something really special.
AND, I will also be honest that there are things I could have done better. This year, I was running three operations and overseeing about 100 employees during peak season, while helping get Oliver’s Acres Market off the ground alongside Owen, Guenther, Joe Burnham, and the team.
I could have communicated more, asked earlier about local Facebook groups, and found better ways for you all to reach us. We are already working on improvements, including setting up a Google number, but because this is a seasonal market, it does not make economic sense to maintain a full-time phone line that sits unused half the year. We are working through the best system that still keeps communication easy.
What matters most is this. We are listening, and we are improving.
We are also excited about the people helping us grow here. Guenther, who works closely with Owen and Joe Burnham, has been helping us put up signage, and his wife is excited to help us organize future Christmas markets, which we are really looking forward to.
Looking ahead, we want to be even more involved with the community. We are beginning to plan:
🍂 A handful of fall events
❄️ Two winter events, maybe even with Santa stopping by
☕ Hot cider gatherings and seasonal markets
I would also love to partner with someone local to help bring some of these events to life. This would be a seasonal or part-time opportunity, helping coordinate a few seasonal events and community gatherings throughout the year. If you enjoy organizing markets or community events, this could be a really fun way to get involved.
If you are interested, please reach out through the website, as that goes directly to my email and is the easiest way for me to stay organized.
👉 https://www.oliversacresorchard.com/
All of this to say one more thing. We are incredibly grateful to you.
Your kindness, patience, and the way you welcomed us into this community mean a lot. We are learning, improving, and excited for the big year and big season ahead.
Until then, thank you for welcoming us to Hillsdale. 🍎
