By Brandie Majeau
Open Farm Days is a unique annual event held in Alberta, Canada, where farms
from all over the province open their gates to the public. The event experienced
tremendous success in 2023, with more than 130 farms participating and generating
$300,000 in direct farm sales. In 2024, organizers are anticipating an even larger
turnout. In addition to the host farms, ten agricultural societies from Crossfield, Spruce
Grove, Heritage, Coaldale, Grande Prairie, Smoky Lake, Stettler, Lac La Biche, Big
Country, and Rocky Mountain House participated. Open Farm Days is not limited to
farms alone but also engages businesses like breweries and distilleries that utilize and
produce local agricultural products. Activities at the participating locations are incredibly
diverse, ranging from petting zoos to intricate sunflower and corn mazes, ensuring there
is something for every visitor to enjoy.
A new addition to Open Farm Days is the introduction of special themes for the
event, with 2024 being designated as the Year of the Alpaca. This aligns with the United
Nations declaration of 2024 as the International Year of Camelids, presenting a unique
opportunity to highlight the significance of alpacas in Alberta’s agriculture. This special
theme will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to gain experience about and
interact with these fascinating animals.
This enriching event presents Albertans with the chance to gain insight into food
production, connect with local farmers and food producers, and experience the farm
environment firsthand. Open Farm Days is a collaborative, province-wide, two-day affair
that provides participants with an exclusive opportunity to meet the farmers, explore
agricultural tourism in Alberta, and savor local produce directly from the source. It is not
just a visit; it is an interactive experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation
for Alberta’s agriculture.
Having been a part of Canada for over a decade, Open Farm Days originated in
the Maritimes and gradually expanded to the west. This event serves as a lively
showcase of Alberta’s vibrant agriculture and tourism industries in a fun, engaging, and
meaningful manner. Open Farm Days took place on August 17th and 18th, 2024. If
anyone missed out on this amazing opportunity, look forward to Alberta Open Farm
Days in 2025.
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