Fall is officially here and the 13th annual Taste Real Fall Rural Romp is offering visitors to experience local harvest throughout Southern Wellington County and Guelph on a self-guided farm and food tour.
The romp is an initiative of the County of Wellington that works with over 150 food and farm businesses to promote local food and local food experiences in Guelph and Wellington County. Taste Real partner businesses include farms, farmers’ markets, retail outlets, restaurants, food processors, caterers and craft breweries.
The romp will take place on Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m throughout 22 locations including farms, markets, restaurants, a tree nursery and the food garden at the Wellington Terrace Long Term Care home.
Local beverage producers, including a brewery, distillery, cidery and winery are part of the event and will be offering samples and facility tours.
Highlights include farm tours, wagon and buggy rides, feeding farm animals, greenhouse visits, nature hikes, pumpkin picking, free trees and hands-on learning activities for the young and old.
“We are excited to showcase such a variety of agri-food stops,” says Christina Mann, Taste Real Fall Rural Romp coordinator.
“Visitors will be able to experience a behind-the-scenes look at beverage processing facilities, public local food projects and a variety of farm operations. The Romp is also a fun day out, exploring the countryside and discovering local food options in your backyard.”
The romp will also have opportunities to snack on local food with 15 locations throughout the area offering breakfast lunch and product samples. Farm fresh foods, fresh baking, beverages and fall decorations will also be available for purchase at local farmers’ markets and farm stores.
Rompers are asked to dig a little deeper by answering a specific treasure hunt question at each location. Additional activities include a photo contest and a ‘Felfie’ (Farm Selfie) Contest. Participants are encouraged to share their Rural Romp adventures on social media using the hashtags #RuralRomp and #tastereal.
There is no admission charge to participate in the event. Locations map and further information can be found here.