Making plans for the Easter break?

In news that will have parents quietly thanking the Easter gods, the much-loved outdoor Easter Trail at Joe’s Farm is hopping back into action.

Tucked away in Killeagh in beautiful East Cork, the family-run farm will once again open its gates for four days of springtime fun on April 3rd and 4th — dates that are already being circled on kitchen calendars in red marker.

Run by Joe Burns and his wife Sandra Burns alongside their three children, the farm has never been shy about rolling up its sleeves and trying something new. Having diversified their vegetable enterprise back in 2014 to produce crisps made from their own potatoes, carrots, parsnips and beetroot — all seasoned with Achill Island Sea Salt — the Burns family have become something of quiet innovators in the countryside.

Now, they’re once again turning their attention to Easter.

For the second year running, families can follow a specially designed trail around the farm, map in hand, collecting stamps at various points before earning that all-important Easter egg. There’ll be face painting for those inclined towards bunny whiskers, and of course, the chance to meet the Easter Bunny himself.

Joe says the demand made the decision for them.

“The Easter Trail was so popular last year we decided to do it again this year. We were asked throughout the year so we have been planning to make it bigger and better this year. We have new photo opportunities along the trail.

“It’s a delight to see so many coming to our farm to enjoy the great outdoors and learn about farming. We have done a lot on the farm and now serve tasty hot food as well. We look forward to welcoming visitors soon.”

Visitors can drop into the farm shop, grab a coffee, and sample freshly cooked chips made from the farm’s own potatoes. There’s pizza, cakes and scoops from Baldwins Farmhouse Ice Cream to round things off.

A few practical notes: no dogs are allowed on the farm, and visitors are advised to dress for whatever weather the Irish spring decides to produce on the day — which could be all four seasons before lunch.

For those keen to secure their spot, booking details can be found at Joesfarmcrisps.ie.