Farm 2 U is a celebration of the interconnectedness of agriculture, horticulture, and cuisine. By learning about the origins of our food, we gain a deeper understanding of the land, the process, and the people. This exhibit inspires a greater appreciation for the plants that nourish us, the farmers who cultivate them, and the chefs who transform them into culinary masterpieces we all enjoy!
Focused on the Agricultural production of San Diego and Imperial Counties, this exhibit showcases the art of agriculture, science of cultivation, and the creativity and celebration of culinary traditions. Centered around floral arts, food, wine, and beer, the exhibit serves to bridge the gap between the producers and the consumers. Through interactive activities, daily presentations, and educational opportunities we strive to help our community learn about agriculture and food production on the path to becoming “food savvy”.
Fairgoers can journey through the exhibit and experience several activities and concepts:
AGRICULTURE FROM A-Z
The heart of the exhibit starts at the heart of every meal—Agriculture! Guests will begin their adventure with an introduction to the crops and commodities that nourish us. California is the number one state in the country for agriculture production with San Diego, Imperial, and Riverside Counties leading the way in several areas. Learn about our “Top Crops” and what happens to them after they have been harvested. Gain insight into some of the misconceptions of Agriculture and understand the myth versus the reality.
A JOURNEY FROM PRODUCTION TO PROCESSING
Did you know that San Diego farmers grow more organic products than any other county on smaller parcels of land? What are those crops and what are the methods used to produce them? Learn about the ways in which food is grown and hear from the farmers and ranchers responsible. Local producers will have the opportunity to connect with consumers and give daily talks or presentations on the Farm 2 U Stage.
MAKING CHOICES FOR YOU, AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Continue into the next part of the exhibit and learn that “Knowledge is Power”—understand what to look for in appearance, freshness, and nutrition of our foods. Discover tips to plan new and innovative meals with less travel and waste, which in turn makes a positive impact on our environment, food system, communities, and pocketbooks! Familiarize yourself with ways to find local and seasonal foods and flowers, promoting a healthy diet and environment. You can browse around our Farm 2 Front Door area, vendors that are in attendance to provide not only the chance to purchase homemade and home-grown products, but provide the opportunity to meet the local farmers, ranchers, and producers who craft these items with care.
CULINARY ARTS: FROM GARDEN TO GOURMET
Celebrate what brings everyone together...FOOD! In this portion of the exhibit, we celebrate the artistry of cooking and how food moves from garden to gourmet. Don’t know how to use that vegetable you picked up at the local Farmers’ Market? Gain tips for using unfamiliar products in the kitchen and around your home. Explore how chefs and home cooks alike combine locally sourced produce, proteins, herbs, and grains with traditional cooking methods as well as fermenting, pickling, drying, and smoking to create recipes that honor the flavors of the land. The centerpiece of the Farm 2 U exhibit is the stage. This brand-new stage will host a variety of events; a state-of-the-art kitchen where culinary demonstrations can occur, talks where you can find out about the farming and ranching industry through the eyes of local producers, educational talks on the production of beer and wine, and the tips and tricks for creating the perfect food and beverage experience in your own home!
FLORAL PRODUCTION
Agriculture, especially San Diego Agriculture, isn’t just about food, it is also about ornamental horticulture and the floral industry. Included in the exhibit will be the Paul Ecke, Jr. Flower Show featuring cut blooms and floral arrangements along with information about San Diego’s world-renowned floral industry. Adjacent to the exhibit you will find the Paul Ecke, Jr. Garden Show, featuring landscape displays and container plants that showcase our local abundance of horticultural products.
BEER EXPERIENCE
San Diego is home to some of the greatest craft brewers in the world. This exhibit in Farm 2 U will highlight the industry- who the breweries are, how beer is made and of course, what it tastes like! Participants of our annual Craft Brew Competition are invited to share their knowledge and products with fairgoers. Participants can listen to inspiring talks and demonstrations, receive information and invites to tasting rooms, and sample choice products in pints or flights from local craft brewers.
WINE EXPERIENCE
This exhibit and wine bar will feature award winners from our Toast of the Coast Wine Competition ordered by the flight or glass. In addition, the San Diego County Vintners Association and others will provide education on local wine production and offer daily wine tasting classes, offering a look at the wine availability here in our own back yard.