Farmer's Fair

The CWA also hosted Farmer’s Fair, an annual event beginning in 1981 with the goal of educating the urban residents about the needs and values of agriculture and promoting support for pro-farm legislation. The first fair took place in San Francisco and Palo Verde; approximately 12,000 people attended. The CWA showcased modern and old farm equipment, the world’s largest salad (1300 pounds), band stands, square dancing, a petting zoo, a cow-milking contest, and a produce market. The CWA offered seventy-five pounds of fresh produce at farmers’ prices, prices lower than the grocery store. For example, the public could purchase garlic for eight cents a pound, compared to two dollars in the grocery store, and avocados and tomatoes for ten cents a pound. CWA President Leona Lewis commented that the Farmer’s Fair offered a “food connection” for some city folk to see live chickens and cows for the first time, truly allowing for interaction between farmers and consumers. Additionally, state legislators were encouraged to attend, as well as media outlets, including television, radio, newspaper, and agri-business publications to cover the event.

Related Collection: 

1. "Community Events"

https://cawomenforag.omeka.net/collections/show/28