HOW yOU MADE FIESTA AT THE FARM A SUCCESS
Last weekend, our community came together under the big tent for a night that was vibrant, filled with purpose, and just plain fun. Fiesta at the Farm kicked off with an incredible show of spirit with guests dressed the part in festive colors, embroidered tops, and even a matador jacket! Colorful umbrellas transformed the tent into a fiesta dreamscape, thanks to the hardworking event committee and amazing volunteers who helped set the scene.
Volunteers kept the kids occupied with activities so that parents could relax and enjoy the evening. This meant that kids had just as much fun as the adults with games like Pin the Tail on Minnie (the banner, not the horse!), and the Peso Toss, plus they spent time painting our patient ponies, Minnie and Cody. But the biggest hit of the night? The epic battle with two impressively strong piñatas—a handcrafted Mane Stream logo and a bottle-shaped Teremana piñata (for adults) that finally burst open after a hilarious tag-team effort by Jen and Kelly.
And while the sky gave us a quick rain shower, it also gifted us one of those signature Mane Stream rainbows that arced beautifully over the barn and pastures, an unforgettable moment that reminded us why we gather: to celebrate and support a place that fosters independence and connection.
This year, the heart of the evening was getting to know the Mane Stream participants themselves. Many guests spoke directly with participants and their families, while others scanned QR codes that linked to personal stories shared online. These powerful moments reminded everyone why they came: to help raise vital funds for our programs and for the daily care of the incredible horses that make our mission possible.
And a big shout out to The Food Architects’ flavorful Mexican-themed menu (shrimp with mango salsa was the fan favorite!). Guests sipped a variety of margaritas courtesy of Teremana Tequila, and mocktail lovers enjoyed our Orange Fiesta Fizz and Zippy Lemonade—both youth- and adult-approved.
Midway through the evening, guests took a break to catch the Kentucky Derby on the big screen and were blown away by a surprise performance by mentalist Jesse Dameron, whose card tricks and uncanny predictions left jaws on the floor. Minds = blown!
The Kentucky Derby broadcast brought everyone together for a thrilling pause in the evening, and guests gathered to cheer for their favorites. Meanwhile, our year-old tractor and utility vehicle were displayed proudly as a thank you to last year’s donors whose generosity during the 2024 paddle raise made those much-needed purchases possible.
We ended the night on a high note as our 50/50 raffle winner, Kimmie Turiansky, generously donated her entire winnings back to Mane Stream! That incredible gesture, along with ticket sales, silent auction, and donations throughout the night, raised essential funds that will directly support our therapy programs, adaptive riding, summer camp, and horse care. It’s not too late to show your support - Click Here!
From the tiniest piñata whack to the biggest community impact, Fiesta at the Farm was a night to remember. Thank you to everyone who joined, supported, and celebrated. We’re already dreaming about next year—stay tuned for the theme and date, because you won’t want to miss it!
thank you event sponsors!
Don Julio - $3,500
Red Tail Farm
Patron - $1,000
The Cavalero Family
The Durden Family
The Greifeld Family
Karen & Steve Kaufhold
The Sudler Family Foundation
The Turiansky Family
EVENT VOLUNTEERS
Neeve Canniffe, Tess Coffey, Catherine Costa, Debi DeLorenzo, Juliet Dermody, Lily Fosburgh, Nancy Grossweiler, Leroy Hunninghake, Amy Mahoney, Karen Zavaglia
EVENT COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Tina Corcoran, Laura Edelson, Nancy Grossweiler, Karen Kaufhold, Jordan McLellan, Kerry Scholz, Michele Stevens, Laurie Willard, Dara Woitkowski, Mary Ellen Yen
Special thanks to Wolfy Nicolaides who volunteered his photography services, providing these great shots for your enjoyment.
