Drive East of the QEII in between Innisfail and Airdrie and chances are you’ll stop somewhere in Kneehill County. Set amongst the rolling prairie hills, Kneehill County is rich in agricultural diversity, creative ingenuity, and natural wonder. Within one hour’s drive from Calgary or Red Deer you’ll find a host of things to eat, drink, and experience.
During Alberta Open Farm Days, experience the real farm to plate story as you tour dairy, cattle, poultry, and pig farms, mixed grain operations, an apiary, and large-scale greenhouses. Many of the farms are multigenerational; meaning they have been passed down through generations of hard-working farmers, ready to share their knowledge, experience, and Alberta prairie pride.
Photo Credit: Bowen Clausen
Kneehill County producers are creating some of the most delicious ‘made in Alberta’ products. Sample Dancing Goat’s cheese made near Acme, fresh baked goods at Mousse Cake Sally and Little Bird Bakery or enjoy a cold beer at Prairie Brewing Company in Three Hills. There’s a local flavour for everyone!
If you’re up for an adventure, be sure to include a trip to the gorgeous Horseshoe Canyon and wander among the local vendors at the Growing Kneehill Country Market. There you’ll find an assortment of local vendors such as High Seas freshly roasted coffee, freshly baked pies from Homestyle Pies, local honey, Nature’s Essential Garden beauty products, and charcuterie from Soleterra d’Italia.
While at the market, don’t forget to sign up for a Canyon tour (occurring at the market on Aug. 17, 2019) or book a local tour for a later date though one of several local adventure companies.
As always, the perfect end to every day on the farm is a shared meal. Enjoy the fruits of Kneehill County’s labourers during the Growing Kneehill County Long Table Dinner overlooking Horseshoe Canyon. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Alberta as the sun goes down on Alberta Open Farm Days.
Photo Credit: Bowen Clausen
Written by Bernice Hill.