A-MAZE-ing Sunflowers return to Ruby Branch Farms

FRANKLIN, Ky. – Summer is blooming in Simpson County as Ruby Branch Farms prepares to open what’s believed to be Kentucky’s only full sunflower maze this Wednesday, July 30. The winding floral attraction, which stretches across several acres, is expected to draw thousands of visitors throughout its month-long run.

What started nearly seven years ago as a spontaneous seed scatter to fill an empty patch of land has since grown into the farm’s most popular attraction. “We threw out some sunflower seeds and people freaked out,” said Laney Snider, the farm’s owner. “Every year we added a little more, and five years ago, we made the whole sunflower maze experience happen.”

The maze kicks off the farm’s late summer season and sets the stage for its bustling fall lineup. “It’s a huge part of our year,” Snider said. “It lasts an entire month, and it’s when we see the most volume of people through the farm.”

Ruby Branch expects at least 1,000 visitors in the maze’s first week alone, though turnout depends heavily on the weather. Guests not only get to explore the maze, but also catch glimpses of growing pumpkins and mums, a preview of what’s to come in autumn.

In addition to the maze, the farm has planned several special events. On August 9 and 10, visitors can attend the “Touch-A-Tractor” event, where local company, H&R Agro Power, will bring out tractors, combines and other equipment for families to climb aboard and explore.

Another major event, the Simpson County Agriculture Extravaganza, will take place on Friday, August 29. The gathering will feature the Smithfield Mobile Dairy, which provides live milking demonstrations, as well as a small trade show highlighting local agriculture.

The sunflower season has also become a draw for tourism in the region. According to the owner, families from all over make annual trips just to visit the maze and often stay in Franklin for the weekend. “We hear from multiple families every year who say they came for the sunflowers and ask what else they can do in town,” she said.

While the maze is a business venture, its appeal goes beyond economics. “You can’t help but be happy and in a good mood when you’re hanging out in a field full of sunflowers,” the owner said. “It’s peaceful, and it just makes you smile.”

Ruby Branch Farms will open the maze Monday through Friday from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 8 p.m. The sunflower fields, along with a smaller zinnia oasis, are expected to remain in peak condition through the end of August.