Alberta Open Farm Days is giving Central Albertans a glimpse into the agriculture industry this weekend.
The two-day province-wide event, (Aug. 17 and 18), features a variety of farms including produce, grain, dairy, and livestock, along with breweries and distilleries.
“There are tremendously diverse offerings across the province. We have everything from alpacas and yaks to apples and yams,” said Tim Carson, CEO of Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies.
Carson explained that Alberta Open Farm Days is important for consumers to learn where their food comes from.
“Oftentimes, people are five generations away from picking potatoes on grandma’s farm, so people don't really have a connection to agriculture,” he said.
Each year, Alberta Open Farm Days highlights the diversity of agriculture in the province, with a changing theme. This year’s theme is the Year of the Alpaca.
“Alpacas are one of the growing pieces of the fiber industry, and nearly 40 per cent of all of the alpacas in Canada are in Alberta,” Carson said. “It’s a growing industry and is definitely part of the fabric of agriculture here in Alberta and it gives us a great opportunity to showcase another piece of the diverse industry.”
This year, there are 160 farms participating in the event, the highest number yet.
Carson attributes the increase to producers' interest in connecting directly with the consumer.
“Having that full connection, and being able to buy right from the producer, those are trending things for our community,” he said.
When touring a local farm, Carson encourages visitors to dress appropriately for the elements, bring a cooler, and leave pets at home.
Click here to see all of the local farms participating in Alberta Open Farm Days.