Anyone who follows social media highlighting Seminole County’s local activities has probably stumbled upon a posting, or even an event, held at Green Acres Farm. This family farm, located about halfway between Oviedo and Geneva, offers scheduled private visits to introduce the farm to members of the community, especially those with young children; plans holiday-themed outdoor fun; and several times a year, screens star-lit movie nights.
During scheduled private visits, you will likely only meet Melissa; that is Melissa Kweller, the force behind Green Acres Farm. And you may expect to meet bunnies, turkeys, a potbellied pig, a friendly, sweet-faced cow, and a bunch of busy, curious goats. During scheduled events, Melissa is joined by her son and her significant other who assist guests with parking, refreshments, and general guidance around the venue.
Starting off 2023 with a bang, Green Acres Farm successfully held its 3rd Annual Chili Cookoff on January 22, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Seminole County Sunset. An exceptional group of chili connoisseurs, families, and friends sampled a variety of offerings. Spoiler alert: This year’s winning team also holds the honor of being a repeat winner, now, three years running! The winning, sweet, hot, meaty, bean chili, beat out 7 other competitors.
A rich, beefy, bean-less scotch bonnet chili came in second for another returning team; and a first-time entrant featuring chick peas and savory beef, won third place. Other competitors offered secret ingredients including grapefruit juice, special spice mixes, chocolate, and beer (both my chili and another used this ingredient).
The event didn’t exclusively offer chili, however. There were lots of things for the kids to see and do, and energetic volunteers, ready to show off the many corners of the farm. Several vendors added interest to the registration area, including Girl Scout cookies and hand made jewelry. The best part of the event was that it served as a renewal of friendships for those who were just happy to reconnect around the bar or one of the chili booths, while enjoying live Honkey-Tonk music, the sunshine, and a warm, breezy day in January.
