At Kootenay Meadows, cows bursting out of the barn to kick their hooves to the sky is the first true sign of spring.
The local dairy farm in Lister, owned by Erin Harris, has been bottling milk in traditional glass bottles since 2011. Their products can be found at local grocery stores, restaurants, and coffee shops throughout the region.
Once the weather turns mucky in the fall, the herd of 100 dairy cows at Kootenay Meadows - mostly Jerseys but also Holstein, Swedish Red, Guernsey, and Normande breeds - head into the barn. This helps keep them comfortable through the cold winter, while also protecting the soil in the fields.
Every spring, the farm invites the wider community to share in the down-to-earth joy of the cows dancing back outside at the annual turnout.
What started as a gathering of neighbours has grown to become one of small-town Creston’s most beloved social events.
Last April, a crowd of all ages stood shoulder to shoulder against the pasture fences to catch a glimpse of the happy cows being released onto the fresh green grass.
Once the gates were flung open, the cows rushed outside with udders swaying wildly, frolicking like playful puppies — kicking up their heels, sprinting to and fro, and head-butting each other in jest.
This year, the much-anticipated spring turnout is set for Saturday, April 19 at the farm (3071 16 Street), when the cows will be let out at 11 a.m.
A vendor and artisan market, with food trucks and music from Kootenay Brass, will be held in tandem at the nearby Lister Park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. And an Easter egg hunt is set for 1 p.m.
The farm shop will be open too from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering the opportunity to buy a t-shirt and try Kootenay Meadows signature products like soft serve ice cream, cheese curds, and crowdie.
Lots of field parking will be available at both the farm and park, with volunteers directing traffic. Please avoid parking along the road and ditch to avoid congestion and ensure pedestrian safety.
Check out the Kootenay Meadow Facebook page for more details.
