Fall 2024

politics or feed prices over a cold beer, toss some horseshoes and kick back a bit. It was famous locally for its Halloween events and pumpkin patch. After sitting idle for a few years when the Wolters retired in 2019, an energetic group led by entrepreneur Nile Estep has taken over the property, reimagining it as a venue that delivers fun and an array of locally sourced products for kids of all ages.“First and foremost, we want to be a community-centric space that entire families can come to, be entertained and do a bit of shopping,” Estep says. And people might just learn a thing or two while here. The first thing visitors encounter is the revival of the hay and feed store that carries on the tra- dition of catering to the livestock owning com- munity. Behind that is Radici Market (radici is Italian for “roots,” befitting Hacienda’s commit- ment to honoring its rural origins), a compact, beautifully stocked shop that offers tempting sandwiches and coffee drinks. There’s a wide range of locally made gift items and foods such as olive oils, preserves, cheeses and Ad Astra breads. Fresh produce is sold here in season, grown at the organic farm located at the south- ern end of the property, by the Carmel River. Pro tip: try the peanut butter bars. Something is going on nearly every day at the outdoor event space. Line dancing and lessons are offered on alternating Saturdays; First Fridays feature bingo; and every Thursday there’s a pop- ular and livelyTrivia Night. Live music is occasion- ally offered next to a safe children’s play zone. In Kids playing with the rubber duck races; other games include cornhole and horse- shoes. There’s playground equipment and more at this family-friendly Carmel Valley attraction. 152 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 4 After sitting idle for a few years when the Wolters retired in 2019, an energetic group led by entre- preneur Nile Estep has taken over the property, reimagining it as a venue that delivers fun and an array of locally sourced products for kids of all ages. Katrina McFarland (left) teaches pottery skills to Karen Newhouse. Hacienda recently added an artisan village, showcasing a variety of skilled craftspeople and their products.