CROGHAN — The Adirondack Mennonite Heritage Association kicked off its summer season with the 33rd Zwanzigstein — 20 stones Fest of “… strangers and pilgrims on the Earth,” Hebrews 11:13b — in July at the Mennonite Heritage Farm.

“We had a beautiful day and made use of our pavilion with great success,” said Rosanna M. Moser, noting there were more than 300 in attendance.

The purpose of Z Fest is to preserve, celebrate and accurately portray the religious and cultural heritage of the Amish Mennonites in Lewis County. Since 1991, the Heritage Farm has provided the site for visitors to learn about the Anabaptist faith legacy and rural life of years past through stories, exhibits, tours, singing, some outdoor activities with children and some demonstrations.

The pavilion, which was erected last year, was dedicated during this year’s festival and was the venue for a panel discussion on the “Evolution of Amish Mennonite Congregations in Northern New York.” Two Yousey families who immigrated to Northern New York in the early 1840s were recognized this year at the Z Fest and throughout the season.

Visitors could take advantage of the hiking and nature trail, dine on a chicken barbecue meal or hot dogs with sauerkraut, with ice cream and pie and baked goods also available.

The farm also hosted a Fiber Arts Fest on July 26 with demonstrations of weaving, spinning, knitting, crochet, embroidery, quilting and comforter tying. Workshops on dyeing yarn with Kool-Aid and a demonstration of making a sock on the circular sock machine were featured.

Other Saturday fests are being planned for the season from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. which will include more demonstrations, tours, food, on the following dates:

— Children’s Fest on Aug. 16 — Learn about “Summer’s Bounty” that will feature activities specifically geared for children at any age and those young at heart. Visitors will pick up a passport upon entry and receive a stamp for each activity they complete as they explore the farm.

— Fall Fest on Oct. 4. Enjoy a fall day at the farm for activities including cider making, bread making, sauerkraut making, food preservation and wagon rides in the woods.

The farm is located at 8778 Erie Canal Road, one half mile north of Kirschnerville, east of Croghan.

The Mennonite Heritage Farm is open for visitors on Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from July to October and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in July and August. Appointments may also be made through the end of October. You may call 315-346-1122 or email info@mennoniteheritagefarm.com.