Student Affairs

Ross Student Farm to host 10th Annual Harvest Fest

Credit: Student Farm. All Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — On Sept. 18, the Dr. Keiko Ross Student Farm will host its 10th annual Harvest Fest. All campus and community members are invited to celebrate this milestone and spend an evening on the Student Farm, from 4 to 7 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. 

Food samples will be provided throughout the evening by a diverse group of local chefs and caterers, including Housing and Food Services at Penn State, the Village at Penn State, State College Area High School and Paul’s Provisions.  

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in various events across the fest, including making sun prints and planting their own succulents (free for Penn State Students; $5 for all other guests), enjoy a petting zoo and participate in other farm-themed activities. 

There are over 25 activity stations throughout the farm; there will be something fun to explore for everyone. 

It is strongly encouraged for guests to use sustainable transportation options to get to the farm, which is located at the intersection of Big Hollow Rd. and Fox Hollow Rd. 

  • Free event buses will run continuously between the Berkey Creamery bus pull-off on Curtin Rd. and the Ross farm from 3:45 to 7:15 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, families and community members are all encouraged to utilize these event buses. 

  • A SPIN bike docking area is conveniently located next to the main entry gate. 

  • Attendees can reach the farm using the CATA buses H route, or a personal bike. 

  • There will also be limited parking in the paved lot next to the farm. All parking for the event requires any level of Penn State permit or pay by HONK app. 

Student Farm Club merchandise purchases, succulents' fees and any other payments can be made with cash, check and Venmo. It is highly recommended to wear sturdy shoes and use sun protection throughout the event. 

The Sustainable Food Systems Network

The Sustainable Food Systems Network includes the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at Penn State, the Student Farm Club, the Food Recovery Network, the inter-college Food Systems Minor, and Course-Client Collaborations. The program aims to develop students’ knowledge about sustainable food systems practice while providing hands-on learning opportunities and positively contributing to the community.  

The mission of the Sustainable Food Systems Network is to educate people about sustainable food systems, cultivate community, and increase access to local foods on campus and in our community. Any questions regarding the annual Harvest Fest can be directed to studentfarm@psu.edu

Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu

Last Updated September 18, 2025