A Visit to the Kersey Valley Sunflower Extravaganza

By Karen Shore

The pandemic-related cancellation of the 2020 summer sunflower field at Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh disappointed so many Triangle residents. In just a few years, visiting the field had turned into a great tradition for area families–photo opportunities galore, walking among an amazing array of gorgeous sunflowers, and something fun to do on a hot summer day. The great news is that you can get a similar sunflower fix until Oct. 4 with just a quick 90-minute drive to the west, toward Archdale, NC.

The Kersey Valley Sunflower Extravaganza consists of two fields planted with over 350,000 sunflowers of 11 different varieties. Aerial views reveal show-stopping patterns of plantings created using GPS technology. The different types of sunflowers on display ensure gorgeous blooms throughout the season.

Visitors can walk through the fields and take photos and even bring shears to the designated u-pick zone during certain times. Although the plantings are set up in a maze-type of arrangement, they are designed for ease of navigation. If you get lost, staff are available to help you find your way.

Tickets are $15 each per person for ages 3 and up, and timed reservations are required. Admission includes one sunflower stem as a souvenir. Additional cuttings, vases, and French round buckets are available for purchase, as are pruning shears. Admission to the Sunflower Extravaganza does not include entry into the farm’s many other activities.

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