Homesteaded in Towanda, Kan., Fulton Valley Farms has been continuously owned and operated for over 150 years by members of the original Fulton family since 1869. The furthest west sesquocentennial farm in Kansas is currently owned by fifth generation family members David and Betty Corbin. Nestled between clear streams and acres of growing crops, the heritage farm is home to the Boot Scootin’ Barn, the Woods Conference Center, and Dash Away Reindeer while also bringing agratourism to Kansas. Every Christmas season, the family hosts several public events to help families celebrate the holiday season.
With over 2 million lights, live reindeer, a live nativity vignette, Santa, and much more; Fulton Valley Farms’ events were born from the idea of using land to fulfill the enjoyment of others and to share the family’s blessings with those who might not have the same opportunity to experience them.
Owner and operator of the farm, Betty Corbin, offered more insight, saying,
“We started Cowboy Church here and then one day I got up and thought, I need to do something because I'm a Christmas baby, and because I wanted to honor God.”
Through this inspiration, Fulton Valley Farms grew from a small church, to an event venue, and now a community tradition today that offers families the chance to experience the magic of the season with lights, live animals, and festive activities—all while celebrating the true spirit of Christmas.
Not only does Fulton Family Farms host Christmas events, they also are an event venue. Their location boasts a large events center for weddings or corporate functions, an executive conference center, an outdoor dance floor, wooden or open spaces for small gatherings and walking paths around streams. This combination allows the family’s farm to host and cater events tailored to people's specific needs, no matter the occasion.
C.J. Wilson, the Special Events Coordinator of the farm, knows exactly how the family operates and treats people.
“The family values Christ, having a hard work ethic, and wanting to give families a location to have fun together…Betty wants families from the Butler Community to anyone and everyone to come here. She literally wants them to have fun, and she wants them to smile. Betty's motto is if it's fun, we're gonna make them smile and be willing to do it. When you come out here you are going to be embraced by the Christmas spirit and a really awesome family that's gonna make you feel like family winners.”
Volunteer worker Matt Cheever, hopes families have a fun experience with the Christmas activities on the farm.
“I hope they make long lasting memories that will last a lifetime.”
Another member of the family, Linda Corbin, reminds the Butler Community that this farm is for all people.
“This farm is for everybody—zero to 100. So if you're unable to walk through the exhibits, we have golf carts available. We also accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, so it’s accessible for all ages.”
Tony Bribiesca, a three-decade-long family friend, also volunteered his time to set up this holiday event.
“This is all about bringing joy and the spirit of Christmas. Every volunteer helps make the event possible. It’s fully funded by Fulton Valley Farms—there are no sponsors. It’s a true family event set up entirely for kids and families and it all comes straight out of the farm’s pocket.”
Our tagline is, we work hard for your fun. So our mission is to provide an area that is safe, that is fun for you to be with your family. And if it makes you happy, and makes you want to come back then that makes us happy,” added Betty Corbin.
“Since our farm is family owned, we convey personally to families much more than a corporate farm and when you come here, it is very peaceful, rejuvenating and relaxing,” said Betty Corbin.
“It can be a part of your family while you're out here making memories with them. What separates us apart from a corporate farm is we are personal and family focused,” added Linda Corbin.
As far as the next generation of owners and operators of Fulton Valley Farms goes, Betty Corbin sees a bright future ahead for her family and others.
“I just want to thrive. I see us refining it while providing for families in and outside of our community…I can’t wait for families to continue to experience our farm for generations to come.”
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