Orkestai Farm is a not-for-profit ecological farm that explores the relationships between Ability, Ecology, Agriculture, and Art. Our program fosters healthy living, social engagement, creativity, and so much more for the community at large, including those with developmental and emotional needs.

At the heart of our mission is Expressive Agriculture, which refers to our recognition that an agricultural ecosystem is not only a chorus of biodiversity, but also a collaboration of people who move together to cultivate the land and choreograph themselves. Through person-centered expressive and educational support on the farm, our members learn to grow food and feel empowered and confident about who they are and what they can achieve.

At FarmPlay! children and their caregivers experience veggies and flowers in a fun and creative environment at Orkestai Farm. This family-friendly summer program is for children ages 2 to 12 years old. Each class includes agriculture and arts activities in a supportive and engaging community.

Our name (OR-KESS-TIE) derives from the ancient Greek word “orkheisthai,” meaning “to dance or to set in motion, to stir up, to raise,” and refers to the space of the ancient theater where choruses of dancers moved together to interpret the nonverbal aspects of the play being performed. It beautifully describes how we envision a farm; as a community collaboration that needs an orchestra of farmers who work together to grow healthy food and merry people.