Description:

One of the best things about summer is farm-fresh produce. And this summer, given our long, cold winter, it seems the harvest is extra tasty. Every Wednesday night Woodstock boasts some of the best local fare in the Hudson Valley at the farm festival. This weekly event brings together neighbors, food and music in the heart of town, at the field at 6 Maple Lane.

There are stalls, dining opportunities and kids activities. The food options obviously vary, depending on the time of the season, but our favorite farmers are often there, chatting about their harvests, as well as the pride and the challenges they experience in their profession. It’s such a refreshing experience to talk with someone who can explain the growing process first-hand – from the effects of rain and heat and other out-of-our-control situations, to the weekly challenges of actually getting their goods to the market. No grocery-store anonymity here, just a nice opportunity to be directly engaged with the land and the food.

In addition, there are special events that complement the delicious offerings. Just in time for patriotic pleasantries, on July 2 the festival is featuring a “Catskills Traditions Day.” Spinning, whittling, even root-beer making will be discussed and demonstrated and kids activities include storytelling and performances. What a great way to celebrate our past by participating in hands-on learning events to see what it was really like.

Other entertainment events continue through July – don’t forget to enter the pie-eating contest on July 30 – and then in August the food really goes center stage. On Aug. 6 a Corn Roast brings out the best of one very special crop here in the Hudson Valley, with competitions and tastings. The tomato is given its fair place in the headlines on August 27, when a homegrown tomato contest offers a lucky winner ultimate bragging rights.

Also, with two stages at the festival, people are reminded that music and Woodstock always go hand-in-hand, while specialty cooking demos are also on the farm festival calendar. With its mid-week timing, this is really an event that caters to the locals, and reminds everyone why the Farm to Table movement is thriving in the Hudson Valley.