2024 Calendar: Farm-to-Table Events

Introduction

Farm-to-table events redefine dining, championing freshness and community connections.

These gatherings celebrate local agriculture, emphasizing sustainable, flavorful, and seasonal produce.

Attending these events isn’t just about a meal; it’s a culinary adventure.

Dive into the essence of your community, supporting local farmers, and savoring dishes crafted with care.

You become part of a movement promoting eco-friendly practices.

Get ready to mark your calendars as we unveil the exciting lineup of farm-to-table events for 2024.

From quaint countryside affairs to bustling urban festivals, each promises a unique gastronomic experience.

Embrace the flavors of local bounty and immerse yourself in the farm-to-table movement.

These events go beyond just providing a meal; they create a connection between you, your community, and the land.

By attending, you contribute to the sustainability of local agriculture and promote eco-friendly practices.

Importance of attending these events

Discover the importance of farm-to-table events as a culinary adventure.

The emphasis is not only on the delectable dishes but also on supporting local farmers and businesses.

You become an active participant in fostering a food culture that values freshness, quality, and community connections.

Overview of the 2024 calendar of farm-to-table events

Now, let’s unveil the highlights of the 2024 calendar of farm-to-table events.

Picture yourself strolling through vibrant farmers’ markets, indulging in farm-fresh produce, and savoring dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients.

These events range from intimate gatherings in the countryside to lively urban festivals, each offering a unique and enriching gastronomic experience.

So, buckle up for a year filled with delicious discoveries and community connections.

The 2024 farm-to-table calendar promises an array of events that celebrate the richness of local agriculture, leaving your taste buds satisfied and your spirit nourished.

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that not only delights your palate but also supports the sustainable growth of your community’s food ecosystem.

Spring Farm-to-Table Events

Santa Monica Seafood Festival (Santa Monica, California): (End of April) Celebrates sustainable seafood with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and educational exhibits.

1. Description of the event

The Santa Monica Seafood Festival is an annual celebration that showcases the bounty of sustainable seafood in Santa Monica, California.

The event aims to promote awareness and appreciation for locally sourced and responsibly harvested seafood.

2. Participating local farms and producers

The festival collaborates with a variety of local fisherman, seafood markets, and restaurants, who are dedicated to providing the freshest and highest quality seafood products.

Some of the participating farms and producers include Santa Monica Seafood, Malibu Seafood, and The Albright.

3. Anticipated activities or attractions

Attendees can expect cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, allowing them to learn new seafood recipes and cooking techniques.

There will also be tastings of various seafood dishes prepared by local restaurants and seafood vendors.

Educational exhibits will provide information about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems.

4. How to get involved or purchase tickets

To get involved and attend the Santa Monica Seafood Festival, individuals can purchase tickets online through the festival’s official website.

The tickets usually go on sale a few months prior to the event, so it is advisable to check the website regularly for updates.

Eat Drink SLC (Salt Lake City, Utah): (May) Showcases local food, beverages, and music with diverse culinary experiences and chef demonstrations.

1. Description of the event

Eat Drink SLC is a highly anticipated food and beverage festival held in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The event aims to highlight the city’s vibrant culinary scene and promote local farms, breweries, wineries, and distilleries.

2. Participating local farms and producers

The festival partners with local farmers, artisans, and food producers to showcase the finest ingredients and products.

Some of the participating farms and producers include Wasatch Blooms, Beehive Cheese, and Slide Ridge Honey.

3. Anticipated activities or attractions

At Eat Drink SLC, attendees can indulge in a wide range of culinary experiences, including tastings of locally sourced dishes and beverages.

There will be chef demonstrations, where renowned chefs from the area share their expertise and showcase their culinary creations.

Live music performances by local artists will also set the atmosphere for a memorable evening.

4. How to get involved or purchase tickets

Tickets for Eat Drink SLC can be purchased online through the festival’s official website.

Early ticket purchase is recommended as the event tends to sell out quickly due to its popularity.

Feast Portland (Portland, Oregon): (Mid-April) Features renowned chefs, culinary events, and workshops celebrating the Pacific Northwest’s bounty.

1. Description of the event

Feast Portland is a premier food festival that celebrates the unique flavors and culinary traditions of the Pacific Northwest.

The event brings together renowned chefs, artisans, farmers, and food enthusiasts to indulge in a gastronomic experience like no other.

2. Participating local farms and producers

The festival collaborates with local farms and producers, such as Jacobsen Salt Co.,

Rogue Ales & Spirits, and Carlton Farms, to showcase the bountiful ingredients and products of the region.

3. Anticipated activities or attractions

Feast Portland offers a diverse range of activities and attractions, including tasting events, hands-on workshops, and intimate dining experiences.

Attendees can expect to interact with celebrity chefs, participate in food and beverage pairings, and learn about sustainable farming practices.

4. How to get involved or purchase tickets

Those interested in attending Feast Portland can purchase tickets online through the festival’s official website.

The festival offers various ticket options, including single-event tickets and full weekend passes, allowing attendees to tailor their experience based on their preferences.

In fact, Spring is a vibrant season for farm-to-table events.

From the Santa Monica Seafood Festival to Eat Drink SLC and Feast Portland, these events offer unique opportunities to celebrate local farms, producers, and culinary traditions.

Whether it’s learning about sustainable seafood, indulging in diverse culinary experiences, or engaging with renowned chefs, these spring events provide unforgettable experiences for food enthusiasts.

To get involved, be sure to visit the respective event websites and secure your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on these incredible farm-to-table experiences.

Read: CSA: Supporting Local Farms

Summer Farm-to-Table Events

Taste of Chicago (Chicago, Illinois): (July) Highlights Chicago’s diverse culinary scene with over 80 restaurants offering signature dishes and live music

1. Description of the event

Taste of Chicago is a renowned food festival that takes place annually in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois.

It showcases the rich and diverse culinary scene of the city by bringing together over 80 restaurants, each offering their signature dishes.

The event allows attendees to indulge in a wide variety of flavors and cuisines, making it a food lover’s paradise.

2. Participating local farms and producers

Taste of Chicago emphasizes sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers to promote the farm-to-table concept.

Participating restaurants showcase their commitment to supporting local agriculture and sustainable practices by featuring locally sourced ingredients in their dishes.

This creates a unique opportunity for visitors to savor the freshest and finest produce from nearby farms.

3. Anticipated activities or attractions

Apart from the delectable food offerings, Taste of Chicago also features live music performances by renowned artists.

This adds an immersive and vibrant atmosphere to the event, creating an enjoyable experience for all attendees.

From jazz to rock, the diverse lineup of musicians ensures there is something for everyone’s musical taste.

4. How to get involved or purchase tickets

To get involved in Taste of Chicago, all you need to do is purchase a ticket.

Tickets are usually available for purchase online and at the event venue. Prices vary depending on the package and the number of food tickets included.

It is advisable to check the event website for up-to-date ticket information and to plan your visit accordingly.

Maine Lobster Festival (Rockland, Maine): (Early August) Celebrates Maine’s lobster industry with lobster bakes, cooking contests, and live music

1. Description of the event

The Maine Lobster Festival is an annual celebration of the thriving lobster industry in Rockland, Maine.

The festival brings together lobster lovers from near and far to indulge in the iconic seafood delicacy.

At the festival, visitors can enjoy a variety of lobster dishes, ranging from classic lobster rolls to innovative lobster creations.

2. Participating local farms and producers

The festival is committed to supporting the local lobster industry and works closely with local lobstermen and seafood producers.

All the lobsters served at the event are sourced locally, ensuring their freshness and the sustainability of the industry.

This emphasis on local sourcing provides festival-goers with an authentic and unforgettable taste of Maine’s famous crustacean.

3. Anticipated activities or attractions

Besides the culinary delights, the Maine Lobster Festival offers a range of engaging activities and attractions.

Cooking contests and demonstrations allow attendees to witness skilled chefs preparing mouthwatering lobster dishes.

There are also live music performances that create a lively and festive ambiance throughout the event.

Visitors can explore craft vendors and art exhibits, adding an artistic touch to the festival experience.

4. How to get involved or purchase tickets

To join in the celebration of Maine’s lobster industry, simply purchase tickets to the Maine Lobster Festival.

Tickets can be bought online or at the festival entrance.

Prices may vary depending on the day and the package.

It is recommended to check the festival’s website for detailed ticket information and any updates.

Peach Festival (Cobbtown, Georgia): (Mid-June) Showcases all things peach with tastings, contests, live music, and a celebration of Southern agriculture

1. Description of the event

The Peach Festival in Cobbtown, Georgia, is a delightful celebration of one of the state’s iconic fruits, the peach.

This event brings together locals and visitors to indulge in all things peach, showcasing the abundance and deliciousness of this Southern gem.

2. Participating local farms and producers

The Peach Festival prioritizes collaborations with local peach farms and producers, highlighting their dedication to supporting Southern agriculture.

Local growers ensure a genuine taste of Georgia’s agricultural heritage in all festival peach-based products and dishes.

3. Anticipated activities or attractions

In addition to peach tastings and samplings, the Peach Festival offers various activities and attractions for attendees of all ages.

Visitors can participate in peach pie and peach cobbler contests, showcasing their baking skills and creativity.

Live music performances by local artists create an enjoyable backdrop for the festivities, while craft vendors offer unique products and souvenirs.

4. How to get involved or purchase tickets

To be part of the Peach Festival excitement, simply purchase tickets for entry.

Ticket prices vary depending on the age of the attendee and the package chosen.

Purchase tickets either online or at specified Cobbtown locations.

Check the festival’s website for additional details and updates on ticket availability.

In short, these summer farm-to-table events provide an excellent opportunity to celebrate local agriculture, savor delicious food, and enjoy live music in vibrant and welcoming communities.

Whether it’s indulging in Chicago’s diverse culinary scene, savoring Maine’s famous lobsters, or reveling in the peachy delights of Georgia, these events offer a unique and memorable experience for food enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Read: CSA Boxes: What to Expect

Fall Farm-to-Table Events

Spokane Harvest Festival (Spokane, Washington): (End of September) Celebrates the fall harvest with local food, live music, and family-friendly activities

1. Description of the event: The Spokane Harvest Festival is an annual event that celebrates the abundance of the fall harvest in the Spokane region. It brings together local farmers, artisans, and community members to enjoy delicious food, listen to live music, and participate in fun activities for all ages.
   
   
2. Participating local farms and producers: The festival highlights the best produce, meats, and dairy products from local farms and producers. Visitors can sample and purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheeses, and more directly from the farmers themselves.
   
   
3. Anticipated activities or attractions: In addition to the food offerings, the festival features various activities and attractions. Families can enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, pumpkin carving, face painting, and games. There will also be cooking demonstrations and workshops on sustainable farming practices.
   
   
4. How to get involved or purchase tickets: The Spokane Harvest Festival is open to the public, and admission is typically free. However, certain activities may require the purchase of tickets or additional fees. Interested individuals can visit the festival’s website or contact the organizers for more information.

Vermont Brewers Festival (Manchester, Vermont): (October) Showcases craft beers from over 100 Vermont breweries with food pairings and live music

1. Description of the event: The Vermont Brewers Festival is a must-attend event for beer enthusiasts. It brings together over 100 breweries from across Vermont to showcase their craft beers. Attendees can sample a wide range of unique and delicious brews while enjoying live music and tasty food pairings.
   
   
2. Participating local farms and producers: Alongside the beer offerings, local farms and producers are also highlighted at the festival. Visitors can indulge in artisanal cheeses, homemade sausages, freshly baked bread, and other delectable treats that complement the beer tastings.
   
   
3. Anticipated activities or attractions: In addition to the beer and food, the festival offers various activities and attractions. There are live music performances throughout the day, providing a lively atmosphere for attendees. Educational sessions and brewing demonstrations are also available, allowing visitors to learn more about the craft behind their favorite brews.
   
   
4. How to get involved or purchase tickets: Tickets for the Vermont Brewers Festival usually go on sale in advance and can be purchased online. It is recommended to check the festival’s official website for updates on ticket availability and pricing. Attendees must be of legal drinking age to participate in the beer tastings.

National Apple Harvest Festival (Gettysburg, Pennsylvania): (Late September) Celebrates all things apple with tastings, demonstrations, live music, and a vibrant fall atmosphere.

1. Description of the event: The National Apple Harvest Festival is a beloved tradition in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, celebrating the apple harvest season. From apple picking to tasting various apple-based products, this festival showcases everything apple-related in a festive and lively setting.
   
   
2. Participating local farms and producers: Local farms and producers come together to display their apple-related offerings at the festival. Visitors can enjoy freshly pressed apple cider, apple pies, caramel apples, apple butter, and other delicious treats made from locally grown apples.
   
   
3. Anticipated activities or attractions: The festival offers a wide range of activities and attractions for attendees of all ages. Visitors can watch live apple cider pressing demonstrations, participate in apple pie baking contests, enjoy live music performances, and explore the arts and crafts vendors selling apple-inspired creations.
   
   
4. How to get involved or purchase tickets: Tickets for the National Apple Harvest Festival can be purchased at the entrance. It is advisable to check the festival’s official website for updated information, including ticket prices, parking details, and special events taking place during the festival.

In a nutshell, these fall farm-to-table events provide wonderful opportunities to immerse oneself in the bountiful harvest season, support local farmers and producers, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of food, music, and community.

Whether it’s celebrating the fall harvest in Spokane, savoring craft beers in Vermont, or indulging in all things apple in Gettysburg, these events are a feast for the senses and a chance to appreciate the beauty of farm-to-table culture.

Read: CSA & Food Security Links

Winter Farm-to-Table Events

NYC Winter Wine Festival (New York City, New York): (January)

The NYC Winter Wine Festival in New York City is a celebration of international wines.

The festival features expert seminars, tastings, and gourmet food pairings.

Wine enthusiasts can indulge in a wide variety of flavors and learn from industry professionals.

Carefully selecting local farms and producers, the NYC Winter Wine Festival showcases the finest offerings from New York’s agriculture.

Visitors can sample wines made with locally grown grapes and savor gourmet food made from locally sourced ingredients.

Anticipated activities at the festival include wine tastings led by sommeliers, educational seminars about wine production, and interactive culinary demonstrations.

Attendees can brush up on their wine knowledge, learn about food and wine pairings, and discover new flavors.

To participate in the NYC Winter Wine Festival, individuals can acquire tickets directly from the official festival website.

Various ticket options are available, including general admission, VIP passes, and group packages.

It is advisable to book tickets in advance as the event often sells out quickly.

Maine Seafood Celebration (Portland, Maine): (February)

Portland, Maine, dedicates its winter event, The Maine Seafood Celebration, to actively celebrate the abundance of seafood in the state.

The festival offers visitors a chance to enjoy tastings of fresh local seafood, cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, and educational events about sustainable fishing practices.

Local farms and producers play a crucial role in the Maine Seafood Celebration.

During the event, they supply the finest flavors Maine has to offer by showcasing fresh seafood, providing visitors with an unparalleled experience.


From lobsters and clams to oysters and mussels, the festival presents a diverse range of seafood options.

At the Maine Seafood Celebration, attendees can engage in various activities and attractions.

They can attend cooking classes led by experienced chefs to learn how to prepare delicious seafood dishes at home.

Additionally, there are interactive exhibits that provide information about the region’s fishing industry and its impact on the environment.

To participate in the Maine Seafood Celebration, individuals can purchase tickets online or at the event venue.

Ticket prices vary depending on the chosen package, such as general admission or VIP access.

For the latest information on ticket availability and updates on scheduled activities, it is advisable to check the festival’s website.

San Francisco Chocolate Salon (San Francisco, California): (February)

The San Francisco Chocolate Salon is a must-visit event for chocolate lovers in California.

Held in February, this festival showcases the talents of local chocolatiers.

Attendees can indulge in tastings, attend chocolate-making demonstrations, and participate in workshops that explore the world of chocolate.

The participating local farms and producers provide the high-quality ingredients used by chocolatiers to create their sweet creations.

From ethically sourced cocoa beans to locally grown nuts and fruits, the festival highlights the farm-to-table aspect of the chocolate-making process.

Anticipated activities at the San Francisco Chocolate Salon include sampling a wide variety of chocolates, watching professional chocolatiers create intricate designs, and learning about the art of chocolate tempering.

Workshops are also available for those interested in developing their own chocolate-making skills.

To attend the San Francisco Chocolate Salon, chocolate enthusiasts can purchase tickets online or at the event venue.

Early bird discounts and VIP packages may be available for those looking for a more exclusive experience.

It is advisable to check the festival’s website for updated information on ticket prices and available attractions.

Read: Seasonal Eating via CSA

Delve into the Subject: Baltimore’s Best Farm-to-Table Eats

Conclusion

Recap of the importance of farm-to-table events

Farm-to-table events play a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture and fostering a closer connection between consumers and local food producers.

By attending these events, individuals can gain a better understanding of where their food comes from and the efforts put into producing it.

Encouragement to attend and support local farms and producers

It is essential for everyone to actively participate in farm-to-table events.

By attending these events, individuals can not only indulge in delicious and fresh food but also support local farmers and producers.

This direct support contributes to the economic development of the community.

Final thoughts on the 2024 calendar of events

Looking ahead to the 2024 calendar of farm-to-table events, it promises an exciting array of culinary experiences and opportunities to celebrate the beauty of locally sourced ingredients.

Mark your calendars and be sure to attend these events to savor the flavors and support the sustainability of our community.

Let’s embrace farm-to-table dining for a healthier and more environmentally friendly future!

Remember, the strength and success of the farm-to-table movement lies in our active involvement!