Pingle’s Reptile Weekend is bringing snakes, alligators, tortoises and other reptiles to a popular Clarington farm for a two-day family event on Aug. 15 and 16.
Pingle’s Farm is partnering with Whitby-based Reptilia to add live animal experiences to its regular lineup of summer attractions.
The weekend will feature reptile presentations, interactive touch tables and a 45-foot Reptilia Cruiser containing multiple animal exhibits.
The activities are included with general admission to the farm.
Live reptile shows coming to the farm
Visitors will be able to attend live presentations featuring reptiles from around the world.
The shows are designed to give families an up-close look at different animals while learning about their habitats, adaptations and conservation.
Reptilia will also operate touch tables featuring reptile-related artifacts and educational displays.
The attraction combines entertainment with opportunities for children and adults to learn more about reptiles and their role in different ecosystems.
Reptilia Cruiser features 26 exhibits
One of the main attractions at Pingle’s Reptile Weekend will be the Reptilia Cruiser.
The 45-foot mobile exhibit contains 26 displays and can feature animals such as large pythons, young alligators, tortoises, iguanas and boas.
The mobile experience allows Reptilia to bring part of its educational programming outside its Whitby facility and directly to community events.
Guests will be able to view the animals while learning about their behaviour, habitats and unique characteristics.
Chickens connect farms and dinosaurs
The weekend will also include interactive “Chicken Chats.”
These presentations will explain the evolutionary connection between modern birds and dinosaurs while giving visitors a chance to meet the farm’s chickens.
The activity is intended to combine farm education with the reptile and dinosaur theme of the weekend.
A colouring station featuring dinosaur and farm-themed sheets will also be available for younger visitors.
Summer attractions continue at Pingle’s
Visitors who are less interested in reptiles will still be able to enjoy Pingle’s regular summer attractions.
Strawberries remain in season, while blueberries are expected to return the following week.
Lavender and cut flowers are also available, and sunflower season begins around the same time as the reptile event.
The farm market continues to offer baked goods, pies and other locally produced food.
These attractions have helped Pingle’s expand beyond its traditional reputation as a fall destination.
Farm known for seasonal attractions
Pingle’s Farm is especially well known for apples and pumpkins during the fall, when the property becomes a major seasonal destination in Durham Region.
However, the farm has increasingly added summer activities involving berries, flowers and family programming.
The reptile weekend continues that approach by combining agriculture, entertainment and educational experiences.
Pingle’s marketing manager Lauren Riddell said the partnership with Reptilia provides another reason for families to visit while supporting another Durham-based business.
Two Durham businesses working together
The event also creates a direct connection between businesses in two Durham municipalities.
Pingle’s operates in Clarington, while Reptilia has its Durham location in Whitby.
By working together, the two organizations are bringing a different type of animal experience to the farm while giving visitors access to Pingle’s existing seasonal attractions.
Pingle’s Reptile Weekend runs Saturday, Aug. 15 and Sunday, Aug. 16, with the reptile activities included in general admission.
Visitors should check Pingle’s official event information before travelling for current schedules, admission details and any weather-related updates.
