If there's something Calgary is not lacking, it's a plethora of farms nearby offering everything from CSAs, to Upicks to hosting birthday parties. Here is a listing of the farms that are within decent driving distance of Calgary and offer Upick.
Things to do before heading out to the farm
- Visit their website and check for hours of operation, available dining options etc
- Call ahead and make an appointment (if required). Also confirm payment methods accepted and minimum age of kids. It's a good idea to check if they also have already picked fruits for sale. Why? Well there's always the possiblity your toddler wants NOTHING to do with plants and it'd be a shame to go home empty-handed. I say this because for the longest time, Sugar absolutely refused to walk on grass
- Ask about road conditions all the way to the farm. Parts of rural Alberta can be scary to navigate alone in a small car. Verify road conditions and presence of wildlife
- Ask about the use of pesticides if that's something you care about especially as a lot of berries are on the EWG's dirty dozen list
- Check the weather and dress appropriately - sunglasses and hats are usually not optional.
- Pack for the trip: lunch, water, bug repellant, storage bags for your produce, first aid kit, anti-itch cream, benadryl etc. Overload I know but still...
- Get directions and print along with a map. Some of those farms have addresses that won't show up on a GPS and cell coverage may be sketchy. Best to be sure of where you're going before you head out.
First farm opens in June - that's 90 sleeps from now - and this year, I hope to be introduce my girls to the concept of food growing on trees.
