MEET: Ananda Farm

Ananda Farm, nestled in Terra Ceia, is a tribute to love, resilience and vision. Founded by Chris Boss, a real estate attorney, and his partner, a contractor, the farm is a labor of love inspired by Chris's late wife. Kristy’s dream of creating a family-focused, holistic farm lives on across Ananda’s vibrant space, which blends agritourism, education and culinary excellence.

Vision Rooted in Family and Nature

Ananda, meaning “ultimate bliss” in Sanskrit, reflects the farm’s ethos. Kristy, who passed from a rare and aggressive breast cancer, envisioned a place where families could connect with nature, indulge in high-quality food and learn about sustainable living. Her passion for holistic living inspires every aspect of Ananda Farm.

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Chris and his team, including partners Kyleen and Coby Hinkle, are deeply committed to preserving Terra Ceia’s historical and ecological significance. They’re aiming to expand Ananda Farm’s impact through partnerships with local schools and increased community engagement.

Challenged and Thriving

Ananda Farm’s journey has proved trying. Heavy rain in September 2024, followed by back-to-back Hurricanes Helene and Milton, destroyed the original mango and avocado groves. Ananda’s opening was delayed, which meant missing a peak part of the fall season when families flock to pumpkin patches and fall festivals.

Forced to rethink their planting strategy, the team is exploring high-density, potted fruit trees since they are more salvageable during extreme weather events.

Significant investments in infrastructure and partnerships have ensured the farm’s growth and sustainability. Ananda’s structures survived the storms, and they opened to guests in early November—hosting their Savor the Season Holiday Festival. Closed from Dec. 22 to Jan. 31 for blossoming, Ananda Farm is again open and welcoming guests back onto the expansive property.

Agritourism and Entertainment

• Interactive Play Areas: Kids can enjoy the jumping pillow, corn pit and a tree fort playground while parents relax in a safe, family-friendly environment.
• Farm-to-Table Experiences: With Michelin-caliber dining led by operating partner Nicole Holtzman, visitors can savor everything from gourmet burgers to thoughtfully crafted farm-to-table dishes. Drawing inspiration from fresh, locally sourced produce and seafood, the menu is both diverse and approachable.
• Instagrammable Attractions: The farm’s picturesque cut-flower fields invite visitors to create stunning bouquets while capturing memorable moments.

Ananda Farm is committed to offering affordable experiences without compromising quality. Visitors will find an array of attractions catering to families and foodies.

Creating Joy, One Visit at a Time

Ananda Farm is a heartfelt tribute to a beloved wife and a gift to the community. For Chris, every jump in the corn pit, every bouquet picked and every meal enjoyed is a testament to Kristy’s legacy.

MEET: Keel Farms

Keel Farms, a treasured area destination, promises a February packed with events celebrating strawberries, community and family-friendly fun. Deeply rooted in the region’s agricultural history, Keel Farms offers unique experiences that bring visitors closer to the joys of farming, food, and connection.

Legacy Rooted in Family and Farming

Founded in the early 1980s by Joe Keel, Keel Farms originally focused on traditional crops before transitioning to blueberry farming in the 1990s. Today, Keel Farms includes strawberries, craft brewing and agritourism events.

Its family-oriented values remain central. Joe’s son, Clay, and Clay’s wife, Carmen, now lead the farm. Their passions involve brewing and community initiatives.

They started the Spotlight Initiative, an organization providing STEAM opportunities to underserved students in the community.

Challenged and Resilient

Despite Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused damage to fencing and the farm’s popular corn maze, Keel Farms remains resilient. Fortunately, crops, including blueberries and strawberries, were unaffected. The team’s resourcefulness—such as using food trucks to provide meals during power outages—ensured a hospitable location for area residents and relief workers.

Strawberry Bash

Strawberry Bash is one of Keel Farm’s February highlights. Occurring Feb. 22 and 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the family-friendly festival promises delight for visitors of all ages. Admission is free, though certain activities may have a small fee. Attractions include:

• Bounce houses
• Camel rides
• Strawberry shortcake
• Strawberry wine
• Strawberry cider

Pick-Your-Own Strawberries

For those who love the hands-on experience of harvesting fresh produce, Keel Farms offers U-Pick Strawberries on Saturdays. For $5 per container, visitors can pick their own strawberries. The farm regularly updates its website, Instagram and Facebook pages with picking availability.

Events for Every Taste

February at Keel Farms includes a range of other activities:

• Yoga on the Farm: This serene experience combines wellness and nature.
• Sipping Shops: Browse local goods while sipping on farm-crafted beverages.
• Jukebox Bingo: Families and friends can enjoy a blend of music and games.
• Cookie Decorating Classes: Enjoy this great date night led by Ellie Mae’s Bakery.

Raise the Spotlight Fundraiser

Carmen, a former teacher, is steadfast in achieving continued growth for the Spotlight Initiative. On Feb. 8, the inaugural Raise the Spotlight Fundraiser, benefiting the Spotlight Initiative, will be hosted at the farm’s lakeside event venue. A renovated, historic home, Osprey View accommodates 300 guests.

The evening will feature tapas, drinks by Keel & Curley Winery and She Wolf, a Shakira tribute band.

Plan Your Visit

Follow Keel Farms on social media and visit their website to plan your next visit. With strawberries in season and a calendar full of exciting activities, February is the perfect time to experience all that cherished Keel Farms has to offer.

Getting Down on the Farms

Ananda Farm:

579 Ken Hubbard Road / Terra Ceia, FL 34250

Keel Farms:

5202 Thonotosassa Road / Plant City, FL 33565

Spotlight Initiative: https://spotlightpc.com

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Originally published in the February 2025 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.