If you’re anything like us, you’ve probably dreamed of frolicking through a field of wispy lavender. Or, maybe you’ve fallen in love with a fragrant soap, lotion, or perfume and wished you could see how it’s made. No matter your reason for loving this popular aromatic herb, you need to visit Calico Fields, a family-owned lavender farm on the Eastern Shore of Maryland! Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about this special spot.
Calico Fields: A Delightful Lavender Farm on the Eastern Shore of Maryland
If you’ve never visited a family-owned farm, you’re in for a treat. Calico Fields isn’t just a farm for the Falstad family—it’s a labor of love! What began as a distant dream for Christa and Jay Falstad is now a beautiful place that embodies a sustainable lifestyle and responsible agriculture.
The Calico Fields Story
Perhaps the most charming aspect of Calico Fields is the heartwarming story behind it! After venturing down a dirt road not far from Unicorn Lake, Christa and Jay stumbled upon what would later become their very own farm. They abandoned their corporate jobs and quickly fell in love with the property’s unique qualities. On move-in day, they discovered two unwanted Calico cats left behind on the property and immediately adopted them. The cats became loved members of the family and inspiration for the farm’s name! After years of giving the property the TLC it desperately needed, the family officially launched their pride and joy: Calico Fields.
What Grows Here
As the little farm grew, so did the Falstad family. Today, Christa, Jay, and their daughter grow pesticide-free lavender, harvest Aronia berries, raise bees, and sell a complete line of homemade goods. The best part? The family controls all aspects of the manufacturing process: Harvesting, oil-distilling, creating, and packaging—all with an emphasis on quality and environmental sensitivity.
How to Experience Calico Fields
Visit the Farm This Summer
Calico Fields is open to the public every summer during “lavender bloom” season. This is typically between late May and early July. In the winter, the Falstads offer special December hours to please holiday shoppers. Be sure to check the Calico Fields site for this year’s seasonal hours!
Attend Lavender Weekend
If you’re planning to visit the Eastern Shore of Maryland this summer, you should structure your trip around Lavender Weekend! It’s a special annual festival hosted at Calico Fields where you can enjoy lavender delicacies like lemonade, tea, ice cream, and more! The family also opens their field, where you can pick your own bunch of lavender and take beautiful family photos. You can also enjoy the Falstads’ personal gardens and woodland trail. Best of all? There’s no admission fee! It’s one of the best summer events on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
See Maryland Through the Eyes of a Local at Brampton Inn!
After visiting this fabulous lavender farm on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, you’ll want to continue supporting local businesses. That’s why you need to complete your trip with a stay at Brampton Inn in historic Chestertown, Maryland! Our family-owned inn is just a 22-minute drive from Calico Fields and offers a truly unique lodging experience. You’ll love attending our Tea Time and Social Hour in the afternoon, joining us for some “porch surfing,” then retiring to your bright, beautiful, and spacious accommodation. All of our rooms and cottages boast premium amenities like games (world-class jigsaw puzzles, anyone?), bottomless cookies and pastries (all house-made), and luxurious linens. After a good night’s sleep, wake up to a complimentary gourmet breakfast and pastoral views of Eastern Maryland’s beautiful countryside!
What are you waiting for? Book a stay at Brampton Inn now! We can’t wait to welcome you to our little corner of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
If you liked reading about Calico Fields, you may also like learning about the Chestertown Farmers Market!