DuBois Farms & Tavern is a local pick-your-own farm with over 20 years of experience with creating memories and special events to keep people coming back season after season.
Highland is home to Dave and Jolee DuBois and their family farm, DuBois Farms & Tavern. Both first-generation farmers, the couple purchased their 54-acre farm and revitalized the land to shape it into a staple of the present day. They’ve grown — and continue to grow — since laying the groundwork for their farm by serving as a home to events and memories over the years.
The Origins of DuBois Farms
For Dave DuBois, farming goes back further than the start of DuBois Farms in 2006. He explains that his connection to farming commenced in his younger years.
“I worked for farms as a kid and always wanted to do it on my own,” he explains. He finally got the opportunity over 20 years ago when he and his wife, Jolee, seized the chance to create a venture of their own.
Dubois recalls that felt an instant connection to the property.
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“I was in the deli one day, and somebody was in there that I knew who said that one of the local farmers was selling all his farms,” he shares. “So I left there, I went right to that farmer, and he drove me around to four farms that he was selling. And when he drove me on this farm, I said, ‘Well, this is it. I want this one.’ It was abandoned, and not really in production, but we thought that…it just felt right.”
Their goals were achieved when they purchased the land in the early 2000s and got to work replanting orchards, using vineyards, and making the property their own. They’ve since expanded the original farm by acquiring one of the neighboring properties, which has allowed them to introduce new agriculture. It has also become a family operation as Dave and Jolee’s two children, Sera and Ben, also work on the farm.
Following the Seasons of DuBois Farms
Coming up first is berry season, and the farm offers a variety of crops that patrons can pick themselves. Strawberries, cherries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are some of the staples. The farm has large patches, especially for strawberries, so DuBois ensures that “we have enough for everybody and then some. So whenever somebody can come, they know they can pick as many as they want.” Visitors can take a wagon ride out to the fields and collect the crops they want, then enjoy other activities the farm has to offer.
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During this time, the farm staff are hard at work. They are up early to ensure the farm and crops are in good condition, the onsite eateries are ready to host guests, and any events are properly planned. They also prepare for the upcoming season’s crops, which include peaches and plums, as well as apples, pumpkins, and grapes.
The DuBois’ open their farm to the public from June through Thanksgiving so that patrons can enjoy the variety of crops they grow. However, work for the farm doesn’t stop in the off-season. Winter is a quieter period on the farm, during which time the team prepares for the upcoming seasons and focuses on rebuilding.
The DuBois Farms Experience
Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week, DuBois Farms is a true agritourism destination in the Hudson Valley. Pick-your-own offerings are central to the farm and the reason why many patrons travel from New York City and around the Valley to visit throughout the warmer seasons.
The DuBois’ had the idea to expand their onsite dining concepts when a frost took out their crops one winter. Dave DuBois explains that when they originally started, they made donuts, but soon realized there was much more they could offer. They grew more fruits and vegetables, which was a perfect fit for the bakery and tavern they later introduced. They added a kitchen with a brick oven as well, because pizza is always a big hit. Today, the farm features many of its seasonal crops on its pizzas, with beer available as well.
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DuBois reflects that “we knew that we had to diversify more, and that’s what we did.” He explains that they also built a play village for kids and added a section for farm-friendly animals. Additionally, they introduced an onsite farmers’ market, as well as events like car shows, craft fairs, and live music.
Speaking of events, spring kicks off festival season at the farm. The Strawberry Festival is first on the lineup and usually slotted for the second weekend of June. The festivals feature food, live music, pick-your-own opportunities, and kids’ activities.
At the end of the day, “we work hard [and] we try to make sure that everybody leaves happy,” DuBois shares. What started as a childhood goal turned into reality, became a family business, and grew into something special for the community. DuBois Farms & Tavern is a place to create memories and enjoy the experience.
DuBois Farms & Tavern
209 Perkinsville Rd, Highland
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