Explore area farms at Open Farm Days
By Janet Kanters, Editor
A couple of local farms are opening their operations to Albertan’s this weekend, as part of the province’s Open Farm Days events taking place across the province.
On Aug. 15 and 16, about 75 host farms across the province are opening their doors to offer open houses, local food experiences, tours, and an opportunity to buy locally Alberta-grown and produced products.
In the Strathmore-Wheatland County area, people can arrange to visit Four Sisters Farm and Red Fox Farms Fungi, the only two local farms registered for Open Farm Days 2020.
Due to event gathering restrictions and space limitations, Albertans who plan to visit a host farm are required to book their spot online ahead of time.
Four Sisters Farm will be hosting farmer golf where participants will try to avoid obstacles such as cow patties, cows, barbed wire, gophers and other “usual stuff you find on a farm.” The farm will also be serving pork on a bun. To register a time to visit the farm, visit https://albertafarmdays.ca/farm/four-sisters-farm/.
Meanwhile, at Red Fox Farms Fungi, visitors can take part in the mini farmers market with a portion of vendor proceeds going to Kids Cancer Care. The gourmet mushroom farm will have multiple vendors both days along with live music and a greenhouse tour and education about growing gourmet mushrooms. To register a time to visit the farm, visit https://albertafarmdays.ca/farm/red-fox-farms-fungi/.
Host farms are working together to ensure Open Farm Days follow all current public health orders and guidance. This year, new measures are being introduced to provide an even safer environment for visitors, including enhanced cleaning protocols, and access to hand sanitizer and handwashing stations.
Alberta Open Farms Days is a collaborative project presented by the government of Alberta, the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies, Travel Alberta and participating farms and ranches.
To learn more about other participating farms across the province, visit https://albertafarmdays.ca/host-farms/.