Explore some of the best examples of farm
markets in the region on this two day tour through western Pennsylvania
and eastern Ohio. We will learn about direct marketing as we sightsee—with
plenty of discussions, food and fun for all. We will tour eight premier farms and
businesses with a focus on the marketing strategies that have helped make these
businesses successful.
We will begin the tour at Giant Eagle’s
flagship Market District in Robinson, PA and make our way north looking at some
great examples of family owned and operated farm markets, ending the day with a
relaxing wine tour and tasting at Wilhelm Winery. On day two we will head west
to Covered Bridge Gardens in Jefferson, OH and fill the day with focuses on
local meats, produce operations, CSA’s and agritourism.
We have something for everyone — seasonal,
year round, produce, food, tourism, value-added, entertainment and educational
farm direct-to-consumer marketing at its finest!
Who Should Attend: Anyone interested in what makes a great farm
visitor experience. Farm or farm market owner, manager, personnel or general food enthusiast interested in seeing
and learning from a variety of retail farm markets and agritourism entrepreneurs.
What You Will See: We will tour
each operation and focus on what has made it a success. The emphasis is on
seeing what other farm markets and businesses are doing. This is a great
opportunity for peer networking, sharing and learning!
Early Bird Price (by June 15): $180 per person (double occupancy, $240 per person (single occupancy). June 16-25: $210 per person (double occupancy, $255 per person (single occupancy).
Fee includes transportation, overnight at Hampton Inn Meadville, 6 meals, all snacks, wine tasting and all tours.
Buses will depart from the Penn State Extension's Allegheny County Office, where there is free overnight parking in a secure lot.
Pick-up and return location details, contact information, tour schedules and lodging arrangement confirmation are sent as we process paid registrations.
For additional information or to register, email
412-473–2540.
Tour Itinerary:
Giant Eagle Market District Settler’s Ridge
Pittsburgh, PA
Giant Eagle’s flagship Market District store
offering a world-class shopping experience with the promise of the best and
tastiest food ideas and discoveries that are sure to inspire the food lover in
you.
Soergel Orchards Family Farm Market
Wexford, PA
Soergel Orchards, family-owned and operated
since 1850, consists of a farm market, bakery, deli,
turn-of-the century gift barn, garden center,
greenhouses, cider press, and most recently, a specialty foods store featuring
organic, natural, gluten-free and allergen-free foods. It is a Pittsburgh-area destination for wholesome
family-friendly events, festivals and activities throughout the year.
Volant Village Shops Volant, PA
Volant is a unique village of quaint shops
and restaurants. The old-fashioned main street, nestled in the rolling hills of
scenic western Pennsylvania Amish country, features
merchants dealing in the arcane, rustic and
eccentric. From Amish furniture to miniatures to teas, specialties of all sorts
abound.
Wilhelm Winery Hadley, PA
Established in 2000, Wilhelm Winery was
created from a passion for winemaking that started in a basement and grew into
a full-scale business. Their philosophy on wine begins with growing and using
only the finest quality grapes and their commitment to detail continues through
the entire winemaking process. Wilhelm offers an Antique Wine Making Museum
along with their delicious, handcrafted wines .
Covered Bridge Garden Jefferson, OH
The Prochko family has been a part of the
agricultural community in Ashtabula County since 1936. Today Covered Bridge
Gardens produces over 45 acres of fresh market vegetables. Their produce is
delivered to farmers markets across northeast Ohio and their farm provides
Consumer Supported Agriculture (CSA) memberships to over 300 families.
Molnar Farms Poland, OH
Family owned for three generations and
counting, Molnar Farms offers the exceptional local produce. Their farm
market operates seasonally from strawberry season in May through Halloween,
offering everything from sweet berries and famous corn to pumpkins and mums for
fall and so much in between. They also carry fresh baked goods and specialty
items.
White House Fruit Farm Canfield, OH
Today the second and third generations of
Hull Family operate one of the largest and finest farm markets in the state of
Ohio. They now grow over 75 acres of fruit and vegetables, and sell all of
their production on the farm as well as other local produce. In addition, White
House offers Ohio cheeses and meats, homemade donuts, pies, breads &
cookies. They are also known for their fresh apple cider and delicious homemade
fudge.
