There are numerous ways to support Real Maine members as spring turns to summer, especially by giving someone a Real Maine experience (maybe for Mother’s Day or another special day, or just because) or having the experience yourself.
Here is a sampling of activities to help plan your Real Maine experience and connect to farms, food, and agriculture throughout the state.
STRESS RELIEVERS ON THE FARM
What could be more zen than practicing yoga outside … with goats? Real Maine members, including Sunflower Farm Creamery and Smiling Hill Farm, offer sessions that bring two relaxing elements – yoga and goats – together. Or perhaps you’d like to take a walk or hike with goats at Real Maine members like Ten Apple Farm, Saco River Farms, or Pumpkin Vine Family Farm? You can also walk or hike with alpacas at Real Maine members like Cape Newagen Alpaca Farm and Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITY
Another great idea for a Real Maine agricultural experience to give, or put on your calendar to participate in, any number of classes/workshops that farms and producers offer. Here’s some examples from Real Maine members:
Stich and Spin at Four Hearts Farm Mainely Fiber
Wine Making Classes at Central Street Farmhouse
Learn Ice Cream Making at Pineland Farms
Nature Painting, Fiber, Basket Making (and many more) Workshops at Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
Lavender Talks/Workshops at Sweet Dreams Lavender Farm
Be sure to go to www.RealMaine.com to find what farmers and producers near you are offering for tours, events, and classes/workshops. Using the Real Maine calendar to search for farm-specific events to help you map your course.
EXPERIENCE FARMERS’ MARKETS
One of the most direct ways to engage with local farms and producers is to meet face-to-face at farmers’ markets throughout our great state. Our friends at the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets offer gift certificates that are valid at more than 50 Maine Farmers’ Markets.
ENJOY A FARM-TO-TABLE MEAL
Having breakfast, lunch, or dinner at a farm café is an enlightening and delicious way to support local farms. Many, if not all, of the ingredients are grown or produced on the same property or only a few miles away. You can enjoy everything from wood-fired pizza to a several-course fine dining experience. Some cafés are seasonal, while others are open year-round. Here are some Real Maine members who have farm cafés – be sure to see if your local farm offers farm-to-table meals:
Stutzman’s Farm Stand and Bakery
The Well at Jordan’s Farm
Remember these tips to enjoy farms and agricultural businesses throughout the state:
HELP KEEP FARMS HEALTHY
- Use good hygiene before, during, and after your visit
- Stay home if sick or not feeling well, or if you recently came in contact with ill people or animals
A WELCOME GUEST …
- Stays in visitor areas
- Follows visitor instructions and signage
- Remembers that not all farms are open to the public, and some are only open during certain times of the year or in designated areas
- Keeps pets at home
- Carries out any trash and recyclables
SAFETY FIRST
- Stick to established trails and roads. Not all roads are open to the public for vehicle or foot traffic.
- Avoid tailgating farm machinery
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Wear close-toed shoes that are easy to clean when you arrive and after your visit.
ENJOY YOUR PURCHASES
- Bring an insulated container when you shop: Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot for quality and freshness
- Always clean fresh produce before eating and preparing
- Ask farmers or makers how to enjoy farm products year-round!
Real Maine is the state’s official agriculture and agritourism promotions program. From seedlings to honey to ice cream sundaes, plan your agricultural experience with Real Maine. Visit www.RealMaine.com to connect to farms, food, and agriculture throughout Maine.
