Open Farm Days lets public take closer look at local agriculture

The public is invited to learn more about local agriculture with the third edition of the SLO County Open Farm Days is set to highlight the significance of family farms and local agriculture in the region. Taking place from July 14th to 16th, this popular event has expanded to a three-day extravaganza, offering attendees an even greater opportunity to delve into the behind-the-scenes world of local agriculture. 

Tourists, community members, and agricultural enthusiasts alike will traverse the SLO County Farm Trail, engaging in tours, tastings, and educational experiences. Anticipation is high, as visitors are eager to forge genuine connections with our local agricultural community, and the atmosphere is charged with an infectious sense of discovery and enthusiasm. Moreover, the presence of adorable farm animals adds to the overall charm of the event.

This year, two exciting additions have been made to the three-day weekend program. On Friday night, the festivities will kick off with the Farmer's Marketplace at Paso Robles City Park, offering visitors a chance to explore local produce and artisanal goods. 

Then, on Saturday night, the culinary celebration Shepard to Chef will take place at Rêves de Moutons, curated by acclaimed chefs Rachel Ponce and Justin Lewis. This special event will not only commemorate the opening of the new Black Market Cheese Company but also highlight the best of local cuisine.

Open Farm Days serves as a self-guided journey, granting access to over 20 farms and ranches scattered across San Luis Obispo County. Many of these establishments are not usually open to the public, making this event a unique opportunity for visitors to explore hidden agricultural gems. 

Farmers and purveyors generously open their gates, providing guided farm tours, workshops, demonstrations, tastings, and various immersive agricultural experiences. Attendees can try their hand at milking a goat, observe busy bees in action, wander through fragrant flower fields, indulge in hard ciders and local wines, savor locally sourced produce, sample exquisite olive oils, participate in hands-on crafts and activities, walk through the very fields where their meals were harvested, and even enjoy cuddles with adorable lambs. 

The event also aims to educate visitors about gardening and sustainable practices. Picnic spots, pop-up markets, and food and drink tastings offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment throughout the event.

Tickets for the SLO Co Farm Trail's 2023 Open Farm Days are now available for purchase. By buying general admission tickets, attendees not only gain access to the two-day event but also contribute to the fundraising efforts for the SLO County Farm Trail and The Great AGventure. 

Interested individuals can visit farmstead.com to purchase tickets and obtain further information about all the Open Farm Days events. The general admission price for the two-day event is $55, but for a limited time until May 31st, a discount of $5 can be applied at checkout. Children under 12 years of age can attend for free.