Residents of the Lloydminster region will have three local opportunities in August to get a closer look at where their food comes from as Open Farm Days returns to Saskatchewan and Alberta.
The annual events invite visitors to explore working farms, meet producers, enjoy guided tours, and take part in agricultural experiences designed to connect consumers with local food production. Saskatchewan Open Farm Days runs Aug. 8 and 9, while Alberta Open Farm Days follows Aug. 15 and 16.
Saskatchewan Open Farm Days Aug. 8-9
In Saskatchewan, organizers say more than 30 host locations will open their gates this year, with experiences ranging from livestock and grain farm tours to culinary events, markets and family-friendly activities.
A featured itinerary on the Saskatchewan Open Farm Days website highlights sunflowers and animal encounters near Lloydminster at Riverbend Trading Post, east of Hillmond, as part of the province-wide celebration. The sunflower farm will be open for tours on both days from 10:00a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Then on Sunday, Aug. 9, Do It Again Ranch Adventures north of Marshall area will open its doors from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Alberta Open Farm Days Aug. 15-16
For Alberta Open Farm Days, visitors can also find participating locations in and around the Lloydminster area, including 4th Meridian Brewing Company, which will do it’s tours on Saturday Aug. 15 from noon to 7:00 p.m.
Further away, farms in Bonnyville, St. Paul and Cold Lake areas will also be opening their doors for tours, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
Seeing the food story first-hand
Organizers describe Open Farm Days as a “behind-the-scenes” look at agriculture, giving visitors the opportunity to meet farmers, learn how food is produced and explore rural communities. Saskatchewan’s event drew more than 4,000 visitors last year and continues to grow across the province.
Those interested in planning a visit can browse participating farms and sign up for tours through the official event websites:
