Take Your Fork On The Road
Welcome to a world of opportunities for those food lovers who like to combine a fun outing with a car full of crisp, tasty food - freshly harvested by you and yours!
Before You Hit The Road
A Roadmap to Flavour
In this section you’ll find links to most of the province’s Farm Gate U-Pick and retail operations from the very visitor-friendly Alberta Farm Fresh Producers and the Fruit Growers of Alberta. There are even a few sample itineraries thrown in for good measure. Remember, if you’re planning any kind of trip — a visit to a U-pick, a trip to a fruit farm or if you just want to reconnect to the sights, sounds and aromas of the countryside — leave enough time for a few side trips. Once you hit the road, you’ll be amazed at all the opportunities to gather and sample the wonderful bounty that you find virtually anywhere you’re going!
| Want to Learn More? To get you started chomping around Alberta, there's a free roadmap guide to Alberta Farm Fresh Producer Association Members. Simply call 1-800-661-2642 or e-mail jgregorwich@gmail.com to receive your copy of the 2009 edition "Come To Our Farms" guide. |
You’ll also find in here some fascinating facts about the food you eat and some opinions from some of the most respected food writers in this province.
So read and click on to discover how any holiday can be food adventure!
Before You Hit The Road
Check out these frequently asked questions and tips from the Alberta Fresh Farm Producers website to help you get on your way.
How do I buy the produce? You can buy berries and vegetables from market gardeners in four ways: you can pick the produce at the farm (U-pick), you can buy the produce already picked at the farm (pre-picked or custom sales), you can become a member of a Community Shared Agriculture Farm, or you can buy produce at the farmer's market. In any case, you are buying straight from the farmer!
What should I wear? Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended. Remember those UV 
rays - wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring some mosquito repellent, just in case.
Do I need anything else? Bring a picnic cooler with ice packs, to keep those berries and vegetables just right until you get home.
When will I know when to visit? You can check for availability on the strawberry, fruit and vegetable pages. We strongly recommend you call ahead to be sure the farm has a good supply of what you want today - don't go home disappointed
Is there anything else I should know? REMEMBER TO ALWAYS PHONE THE FARM BEFORE YOU GO TO CHECK AVAILABILITY!
Please respect the grower's property and follow any written or verbal instructions you are given. Most of all, HAVE FUN!
What about storing the berries? You can preserve their food value and quality by treating the berries gently. When you get them home, sort but do not clean them until just before you use them. Store the berries uncovered in the refrigerator in the original or a shallow container. When you are ready to use the berries, wash them quickly in cold water. Do not let them soak. Lift them gently from the wash water and drain them well before you hull them. It's best to use your strawberries within three days.
