Agritourism at Wish Farms
What do you get when you combine agriculture and tourism? Agritourism! Yes, it’s a real concept and a booming trend amongst many farm communities nationwide. Defined as an agriculturally based operation or activity that brings visitors to a farm or ranch, it involves a wide variety of activities such as buying produce directly from a farm or stand, picking fruit, feeding animals, or staying at a farm-based bed & breakfast. These activities are fun and different, but also a great way to gain an appreciation for the food we eat.
Agritourism, in its own right, is critically important to the economy of many small farm communities. The Small Farm Center at the University of California states, “Agricultural tourism or agritourism, is one alternative for improving the incomes and potential economic viability of small farms and rural communities.” It is a niche form of tourism that is a major contributor to the success of small farms and coincides with the growing trend of the “farm to table” way of eating.
As part of our own agritourism efforts and a response to the many requests of loyal customers, Wish Farms recently expanded the popular “Strawberry U-Pick” program – which was in past years only reserved to one day per year. Now available on select Saturdays each month throughout the Florida strawberry season, you can bring the entire family for a fun day of strawberry picking and memory making! How does it work? Check out our calendar of Strawberry U-Pick Dates and times, we will have monthly U-Pick days. We have already scheduled U-Picks on the following days, from 10am-2pm: Saturday, January 25th; Saturday, February 22nd; and Saturday, March 15th. Then, stop by Wish Farms at Florida 60 and Jerry Smith Road in Plant City, grab several of the provided boxes or cups (larger the better), pick your own strawberries, and pay per flat based on the weekly market price (please don’t forget, it’s cash only!).
Agritourism is a great way to help out our local farm communities, and with Wish Farms “Strawberry U-Pick” you can create a special learning experience for the entire family. Pick your own strawberries, bring them home, and enjoy this delicious Florida fruit!
