In the days leading up to the rural roots farmer showcase event organizers could not help but feel excitement. The historic former homestead of the Pegg family provided the perfect backdrop for the first ever Rural Roots Farmer Showcase event. The event consisted of a two part producer showcase.
The first part was the vendor market. The vendor market took place from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday, August, 17, and was filled with some of the freshest local food around. After 10:30 am the vendor food market saw a steady influx of people. Many vendors rejoiced at the opportunity to network with attendees. Janice Beaton Cheese Partners and Collette's kitchen were both able to sell out of all the stock they brought. While our meat vendors Aspen Acres Market Garden and Blue Ridge Farms had steady business throughout the day.The vendor market was also home to the Coralee Mercer Petting Zoo. Children and parents alike marveled at the goats, chicken, bunny, and ducks at the petting zoo. Children at the event were also entertained by the Lac Ste Anne County Kids tent. The kids tent included activities such as giant Connect four and Jenga, face painting, glitter tattoos, etc. Thus, by all accounts the vendor food market was a success.
The second part of the rural roots farmer showcase was the farm to fork dinner. The dinner was catered by Cindy and Brad of the Culina To Go restaurant. Cindy and Brad prepared a flavorful meal, using the food products provided to them by the vendors from the vendor food market. For example, Denise from Hill and Dale graciously provided the folks at Culina with some farm fresh produce, and Jillian from Blue Ridge Farms provided them with bacon for the meal. The delicious food coupled with the m.c for the evening -the wonderful Bob Chelmick the host of the CKUA radio program “On The Road Home”- created a lovely atmosphere. Attendees were also wowed by the variety of beverages available to them courtesy of Bent Stick Brewing, Black Diamond Distillery, and Color de Vino Wine & Spirits. All in all the farm to fork dinner was a major success
In summary, it was magical to see the months of planning and coordination lead to such a marvelous event. We hope to continue on year after year, and witness the events popularity and notoriety grow. We thank all who organized, volunteered and attended.
