On October 12, 2025, Honey Wilde Farm in Unity, Maine, welcomed visitors for its annual Open Creamery Day, showcasing the farm’s thriving goat population and artisanal products. Owner Kirby Carleton opened her farm, located at 42 Cross Road, to the public, allowing families to interact with her herd of 26 goats, including 22 females and four bucks.
Carleton’s journey into goat farming began several years ago after visiting two local farms during a previous Open Creamery Day. Inspired by her great-uncles who operated dairy farms, she envisioned creating a diverse homestead. However, her passion for cheesemaking and goat husbandry blossomed after her farm visit, leading her to establish Honey Wilde Farm.
The event is organized by the Maine Cheese Guild, which aims to promote the art of cheesemaking and educate the public about the animals that produce milk. Now in its 17th year, Open Creamery Day featured ten participating creameries across central Maine, from Appleton to Farmington.
At Honey Wilde Farm, visitors enjoyed an array of activities, including meeting the goats and sampling various products. Shoppers could purchase cheeses, such as feta and Maine blueberry chèvre, as well as goat milk soap and beeswax-based lotions. Carleton noted that the event typically attracts around 100 attendees, a solid turnout although slightly less bustling than spring events featuring baby goats.
Carleton’s farm has seen significant growth since its inception in 2017. After obtaining her dairy license in 2020, she expanded her offerings from soap to cheese, converting a bedroom into a cheese-making space with guidance from a state dairy inspector. She emphasized the importance of contacting inspectors early in the process for assistance.
Unlike many dairies that close during the winter months, Honey Wilde Farm remains operational year-round. Carleton breeds half her herd alternately, ensuring a consistent supply of milk. The farm also participates in the United Farmers Market of Maine in Belfast, where its products are sold weekly.
During the Open Creamery Day, Carleton celebrated the grand opening of a small storefront, which will be open every Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00 during the holiday season. Her family members, including her children and parents, assist with sales, but the majority of the farm’s operations fall to Carleton, who balances her responsibilities with a full-time office job at Athenahealth.
The hard work and dedication of Carleton are evident, especially during the busy kidding season. “I’ll be up all night with goats having babies, and then I’ll go to work without going to bed,” she shared, reflecting on the demanding nature of her dual roles.
Open Creamery Day at Honey Wilde Farm not only provided a glimpse into the life of goat farming but also highlighted the importance of local agriculture and community engagement in Maine. As visitors interacted with the goats and explored the farm’s offerings, Carleton’s passion for her work resonated, making the day a memorable experience for all.
