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See event listings and more articles in this edition of Agri-News: December 15, 2025 issue
Alberta Open Farm Days is a provincewide initiative, inviting Alberta farms to open their gates to the public. Participants can explore a diverse range of farms and agricultural businesses while enjoying a free, hands-on educational experience.
The program serves 2 key purposes: fostering a deeper public understanding of agriculture and strengthening trust in producers and the broader industry. In doing so, Open Farm Days also acts as an incubator for agri-tourism, offering farms valuable tools and opportunities to develop new ventures.
“2025 was a record-setting year for Open Farm Days, in terms of both on-farm sales and attendance at farm visits and culinary events,” says Tim Carson, CEO, Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies. “We welcomed 52,783 visitors this year, and several farms reported record attendance as well as record spending. As well, 23.5% of participating farms were new to Open Farm Days. It is exciting to see the number of new farms grow each year.”
In addition, on-farm sales totaled $331,676, bringing the total sales over the 13-year history of Open Farm Days to over $2 million. This total represents sales reported by participating farms.
“The money generated from on-farm sales reflects visitors’ growing appreciation for agriculture and the products farms offer,” says Carson. “This level of spending shows a strong willingness to invest locally. Purchasing directly from producers allows the public to connect with the farm gate and gain a firsthand understanding of where their food comes from.”
There was very positive feedback from visitors at this year’s event, many of whom shared their highlights:
- “Was my first time so it was very memorable. What a wild experience! Never seen behind the scenes of a farm so it was very educational.”
- “Seeing the equipment used to get potatoes into storage, the feed rations at the feedlot, tasting raw sugar beet, and seeing that we grow cantaloupe in Southern Alberta!”
- “I loved the tours and the information! The tractor/wagon tour with audio recording of what the farmer grows and the family history (Edgar Farm). Shirley’s Greenhouse tour was done by the owner himself which clearly reflected his passion for organic farming.”
- “All of the amazing experiences. Friendly farmers and staff. Knowledge and passion sharing. Fresh air with my family and open spaces.”
“Alberta Open Farm Days would not be possible without the incredible hosts who welcome visitors to their farms, the thousands of Albertans who participate, or the tremendous support of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation and Travel Alberta,” says Carson. “We are looking forward to another great event in 2026 showcasing agriculture and food in Alberta. Mark August 15 and 16 on your calendar for the 14th annual Alberta Open Farm Days.”
For more information, see:
Contact
Connect with the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies for more information:
Phone: 780-427-2174
Email: [email protected]
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