Farm to Fork Brings More Than Dinner to the Table
Traditionally, great conversation and collaboration enjoy a culinary component, a gathering around the family dinner table. So when Butler County Farm Bureau Association sought to raise money for their Agriculture in the Classroom efforts, which support speakers, field trips and educational programs across Butler County, they looked to create a fulfilling event to bring folks together.
Butler County’s western edge borders the bustling city of Wichita; its eastern plains feature flint-rock roads, ranches and farms. Tiya Tonn, rancher and event chair, points out, “Eastern county ranchers and farmers visiting and eating with western county residents has inspired a better understanding and appreciation between producers and consumers who support one another.”
The Seventh Annual Farm to Fork, a festival of local food, is a countywide event that will run this year from July 16 to July 23. Crowd-pleasing highlights include the following: Family “AgVenture“ Day featuring farm and ranch learning experiences, a charcuterie board building event, a unique upscale bus tour that boasts a one-of-a-kind pasture picnic, as well the final evening’s crown jewel, the Farm to Fork al fresco feast at Fulton Valley Farms.
Family “AgVenture” Day
July 16, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Approximately 30 farms, ranches and agricultural businesses across Butler County participate in this self-guided experience. Receive a stamp at each location, fill your passport, and enter to win a $200 gas card. Tours are available.
Entrepreneurial Workshops
July 16, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Leon
Are you interested in selling at a farmers’ market? Having your own salsa brand? Running an agritourism venue? These workshops are for you! Lunch available on site.
After Market
July 16, 1–3 p.m., Leon
Many local farmers will come together to provide a rare afternoon of Farmers’ Market offerings.
Charcuterie with Chefs
July 16, 6–8 p.m., Applejack’s Pumpkin Patch, Augusta
Locally produced beer, wine and hard cider will be available at this fundraising event and auction. Chef Natasha Gandhi-Rue of The Kitchen; newcomer chef Scott Peggie of the Redler Institute of Culinary Arts; and Tony Yaghjian, owner and operator of Misfit Kitchen food truck, will demonstrate tips to make your next charcuterie board the center of your gathering. The highest bidder will take the chefs’ boards home that evening to enjoy.
Ag Art Show
July 16, 19–23, Kansas Oil Museum Boardroom, El Dorado
The emphasis is on youth art this year, but other categories are open. This is not a contest but rather a celebration of agriculture. Entries accepted through July 8 at 4 p.m.
Farm to Fork Luxury Charter Bus Tour “AgVenture”
July 23, 8:00 a.m.–5 p.m., Fulton Valley Farms, Towanda
Explore the northern half of the state’s largest county in comfort and style, while connecting with the families that feed yours. This delightful, fun-filled educational day will include a delicious, locally sourced and produced lunch, and later a scenic pasture picnic complete with Grace Hill Wines and Walnut Valley Brewing Beers.
Bounty of Butler Feast, Mixer and Dinner
July 23, 5–8 p.m., Fulton Valley Farms, Towanda
Locally grown and sourced foods will be prepared by the Redler Institute of Culinary Arts students of Butler Community College under chef Luis Peña’s guidance. Alicia Pena, Redler’s pastry chef, will share her expertise as well, along with a fresh take on the evening by the institute’s newest chef, Scott Peggie. Local wine, beer and hard cider will round out the mixer. Vendor booths and educational displays will give the grounds a festival feel. Silent auction items will be available at every booth. Gathering amid the setting sun, the al fresco dining experience will be spectacular.
Farm to Fork Festival
For more information:
Contact Tiya Tonn
316.648.2556
Tickets: eventbrite.com