McHenry County Fair

From McHenry County Fair Website:

McHenry County has historically been home to farmers producing fruits, vegetables, eggs, dairy products, meat and fiber. As the population grew, farms got bigger, but the numbers dropped, resulting in the loss of many small family farms. And we began to realize that much of the food we consume travels as much as 1500 miles to get to the table. "If you eat, you are a part of agriculture" says the sign at the Bauer Farm on Barnard Mill Rd. in Wonder Lake. So today, farms and farm families are changing and returning, transitioning in many cases to specialty producers. There are now pick-your-own apples, berries and pumpkins. Many towns support farmer's markets, including Woodstock's own award winning market on the square. You can purchase local beef, pork, chicken and eggs at these markets or directly from the farmer. More and more of the restaurants are adding local foods to the menu. And the University of Illinois Extension has added a "Small Farm, Local Food's" educator to the staff.

Join us for the 2014 Fair July 30-Aug 3, as we celebrate our local farmers and the foods they produce. Walk thru the barns where you can learn about beef, dairy, pork and chicken. Visit the gardens where you can see and hear from Master Gardeners about growing your own vegetables. Meet some of the farmers who produce your food. Learn about the history of farming in McHenry County. And then, sample some local food. We hope to see you next year, and in the meantime, visit a local farmer's market, on-farm vegetable stand, restaurantand enjoy eating local.