#GatherAtTheFarm in Durham Region this season

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham’s Economic Development and Tourism Division (Durham Tourism) has launched a new campaign in celebration of Durham Farm Fresh (DFF)'s 30th anniversary this October, encouraging residents and visitors to Gather at the Farm in Durham Region this season.

With the official start of fall last week, and with Thanksgiving around the corner, there are more reasons than ever to gather at the farm. From pumpkin patches and wagon rides to gathering farm-fresh ingredients for your fall feast, join in the fall fun as Durham Tourism celebrates DFF.

Throughout the month of October, gather at the farm in Durham Region to enjoy one, or all, of the 12 farm events taking place across the region this season—from harvest festivals to spooky events, and everything in between. Select local ingredients for a festive meal, pick your own pumpkins, or journey through a two, 10 or 40-acre corn maze at farms across Durham.

Guests are also encouraged to visit farm stores, learn about the DFF Marketing Association, and discover more fall adventures—including the Durham Region Apple Adventure and family-fun experiences in the Durham Region Discovery Guide.

DFF is a membership association representing farms, farmers’ markets, retailers, chefs and restaurants located within Durham Region. DFF provides resources for local producers and connects those interested in local food to the agricultural products grown in the community. For those interested in becoming a member, contact Durham Tourism.

While exploring all that Durham Region has to offer this season, don’t forget to share your gathering on social media using the hashtag #GatherAtTheFarm and tag @DurhamTourism in your posts.

To find fall farm activities and events in Durham Region, visit DurhamTourism.ca/gather.

Quotes

“Congratulations to the Durham Farm Fresh Marketing Association on their 30-year anniversary! Durham Region is home to some of the best and most scenic agri-tourism attractions in Ontario. From community celebrations and harvest festivals to unique farm experiences shared with family and friends, there are more reasons than ever to gather at the farm in Durham Region this season.”

– John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“Vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves across Durham’s rolling countryside will welcome you this fall. At farms in Durham, you’ll find the freshest ingredients, memorable desserts, insta-worthy adventures, and authentic local gifts. Durham Region’s farms are the place to gather with family and friends, and enjoy this incredibly colourful harvest season.”

– Jacquie Severs, Manager, Marketing and Tourism

“Since 1993, Durham Farm Fresh has been proud to help local producers—and others committed to local food—market their products. Our producer members provide safe, high quality food options, local food products, and on-farm experiences for everyone to enjoy. Gather at farms across Durham Region using the online interactive Durham Farm Fresh map or follow the iconic road signage to find your next fall farm adventure.”

 – Rob Alexander, President and Chair, Durham Farm Fresh

Quick Facts

• Less than an hour's drive from Toronto awaits the charming and vibrant communities of Durham Region. Durham offers a growing population and an ideal location for tourism investment. To learn more, visit DurhamTourism.ca.
• Durham Region is home to the Apple Capital of Canada. From farm fresh orchards and tap rooms to local bakeshops, Durham Region is the place to plan your apple adventure. To plan the ultimate apple experience, visit DurhamTourism.ca/AppleAdventure.
• The Durham Region Discovery Guide features fun activities and experiences for all ages—from urban excitement to country charm. Learn more about the unique experiences offered across the region and download your free guide at DurhamTourism.ca/guides.
• The Durham Farm Fresh Marketing Association is a not-for-profit membership-based organization representing farms, farmers’ markets and restaurants throughout Durham. The organization helps local producers and others committed to local food, market local products to the community. Find out what is in season and DFF farms located near you through their interactive map. To learn more, visit DurhamFarmFresh.ca.
• Due to its rural nature and land located in the Greenbelt, Durham has the highest number of farms, acres of farmland and gross farm receipts in the Greater Toronto Area. According to the 2021 census, there are 4995 farms within the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH), which Durham’s farm population accounts for 24 percent of. View the Growing Agri-Food Durham: A Five Year Plan to Grow the Agri-Food Industry in Durham Region to learn more.
• The 2023-2027 Ready, Set, Future: A PLACE Blueprint for Durham outlines the Region’s aspirations to create vibrant, distinct cultural identities and places to gather. Agri-tourism plays a vital role in attracting visitors through enabling new experiences, local food and on-farm diversification initiatives. To learn more about agriculture initiatives in Durham Region, visit InvestDurham.ca.

About Durham Region

Nestled between lakes Ontario, Simcoe and Scugog lies Durham Region. A landscape that's made up of urban, rural, and commercial zones—from rolling hills and farmland, to bustling downtowns and industrial lands. Our large, diverse landscape is driving our position as one of the fastest growing populations in Canada; with forecasted population growth to approximately one million residents by 2041. Visit durham.ca to learn more.

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For media inquiries, please contact Corporate Communications.