PLAMONDON - The first Open Farm Days celebration in Plamondon not only brought together the area’s farming community for a locally produced dinner but included some fun too.
Over 190 people gathered on Friday at the Plamondon Festival Centre for the locally sourced meal and entertainment. The event was hosted by Plamondon and District Agricultural Society (PDAS) and the Plamondon and District Community Development Society (PDCDS).
The province-wide Open Farm Days celebration took place provincially on Aug. 13 and 14 and aims to raise awareness about the Alberta farming industry and where produce and livestock comes from. Bridging the topic while creating an opportunity for producers and locals to gather was what the evening was all about, said Paulette Plamondon, the night’s organizer and treasurer of PDAS.
“Tonight was about showcasing our producers that create the food that we are not only able to enjoy now, but for each of our three meals a day,” she said during the Aug. 12 event.
Locally sourced dinner
The field-to-table experience included a roast beef main provided by multi-generational farmers Lakeview Acres, alongside a meatball gravy dish. The potatoes and mixed vegetable sides were provided by Lac La Biche farmers at Sand Springs Ranch. Additionally, two salad dishes were supplied by the ranch and the North Country Co-op in Plamondon.
“We really wanted to have most of our meal provided by local producers, and over 97 per cent of the food that was served is from the community. We’re really fortunate to have this opportunity to showcase our farmers,” said Plamondon.
After guests filled their plates, many dessert options filled the Festival Centre’s hall, ranging from Saskatoon and raspberry cheesecakes to rhubarb crisps. The ingredients for the sweets were sourced from Labonte Farms and Dale Richard's own garden, said Plamondon.
“The event was not possible without all our farmers and producers lending a hand,” she said, gleaming with a smile during the farm-to-table experience.
Mental health awareness
After the evening meal wrapped up, motivational speaker and Saskatchewan farmer Lesley Kelly talked about mental health challenges that producers sometimes experience.
“Having Kelly speak here is very important because our food producers face so many challenges, from poor crop seasons to mental health challenges. The presentation was a wonderful way to lend support and show how important it is to connect,” said Plamondon.
The evening event that began with a cocktail hour at 5 p.m. wrapped up late in the evening after a much-needed dance with music provided by local band Hired Hand.
“This was only our first year and what a wonderful turnout it was. We look forward to seeing everyone next year and making this experience an annual event,” said Plamondon.
