The Choose Iowa Farm Crawl will return for a second year this month showcasing the people, products, and places that make Iowa agriculture unique.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig recently announced that this year’s Choose Iowa Farm Crawl will be held Friday and Saturday, June 26-27. The two-day event invites Iowans and visitors alike to hit the road, discover new destinations, support local businesses and be a part of Iowa’s agritourism.
“The Choose Iowa Farm Crawl is a chance to turn an ordinary weekend into an Iowa adventure,” Mr. Naig said in a news release Wednesday, June 17. “The Crawl offers something for everyone, from authentic agritourism experiences and local food to shopping, sightseeing, and opportunities to connect directly with Iowa farm families and small businesses.”
Several dozen Choose Iowa members from across the state have already signed up to welcome guests and showcase their farms, businesses, products, and communities during the event. Choose Iowa said participation is continuing to grow as more members join the event. Check for the list of participants at ChooseIowa.com.
Participants represent the diversity of Iowa agriculture and include farms, creameries, meat processors, flower farms, garden centers, wineries, breweries, farm stores, farmers markets, and farm-to-table restaurants. Along the way, visitors can enjoy local food and beverages, shop for Iowa-grown and Iowa-made products, connect with local producers, and experience the unique attractions and hospitality found in Iowa’s rural communities.
“It’s a fun way to support local communities, discover hidden gems that may be just down the road, and experience firsthand the people and products that make Iowa agriculture special,” Mr. Naig added.
Plan your Farm Crawl
Iowans and other visitors are encouraged to plan their Farm Crawl experience using digital maps and participant guides available here.
Many participating locations are offering special promotions, discounts, and bonus opportunities through the free Choose Iowa Passport. The Choose Iowa Passport encourages consumers to visit participating Choose Iowa members, check-in at locations across the state, and earn points redeemable for prizes.
Some of the Farm Crawl highlights are:
- Authentic agricultural experiences – Meet Iowa farm families, tour farms and agricultural businesses, and learn more about how food, beverages, flowers, and other agricultural products are grown, raised, and produced.
- Explore Iowa’s rural charm – Take the scenic route and discover hidden gems in communities across Iowa, from family farms and creameries to flower farms, farm stores, wineries, breweries, and local restaurants.
- Support local producers – Purchase Iowa-grown, Iowa-made, and Iowa-raised products directly from local farms and businesses.
- Agritourism family adventures – Enjoy family-friendly activities, unique experiences, local food and beverages, and opportunities to connect with Iowa agriculture.
- Earn Rewards with Choose Iowa Passport – Sign-up, check in at participating locations, earn points, and redeem them for prizes while discovering new destinations across the state.
Fall Crawl set Oct. 9-10
Looking ahead, Choose Iowa announced it will host a statewide Fall Crawl on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 9-10. This event will provide another opportunity for consumers to explore Iowa farms, agritourism destinations, and seasonal agricultural experiences.
