What is Alberta Open Farm Days?

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.