Choose Iowa launches inaugural Iowa Farm Store Crawl

This weekend, you’ll be able to shop while you hop from barn to barn across Iowa.

The Choose Iowa Farm Store Crawl, an initiative by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), launches its inaugural event this weekend. On June 21 and 22, visitors are encouraged to discover Iowa’s rich agricultural heritage, explore its offerings, connect with local farmers and enjoy authentic agritourism experiences.

The two-day event. which coincides with the Iowa Barn Foundation’s Spring Barn Tour in Cedar County, aims to promote on-farm retail and agritourism by showcasing Choose Iowa member farms, businesses, farm-to-table restaurants and farmers markets. The event will highlight products grown, made or raised in Iowa.

“The Choose Iowa Farm Store Crawl is a fantastic opportunity for Iowans and visitors to experience our diverse and thriving agriculture,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “By connecting directly with local farmers, businesses and restaurants, this inaugural event celebrates Iowa’s rich agricultural heritage and showcases our abundant supply of Iowa grown, made and raised food, beverages and ag products.”

The tour, divided by region, includes 24 stops across Eastern Iowa. For a full list of farms on the route, visit chooseiowa.com/farmstorecrawl. There, tourists can plan their crawl using digital itineraries with suggested routes.

Choose Iowa members will host farm tours, tastings and other activities. Many participating stops offer deals and coupons through the Choose Iowa Passport, a free digital platform launched in partnership with Travel Iowa.

Since 1997, the Iowa Barn Foundation (IBF) has been dedicated to preserving and promoting awareness of Iowa’s historic architecture in barns across the state. The inaugural Choose Iowa Farm Store Crawl will showcase a centerpiece at Tenley Farms near Mechanicsville, which will serve as a joint hub for the store crawl and the Cedar County barn tour.

“As an active Iowa farmer, I appreciate the efforts of the Choose Iowa program. Encouraging the local production of food makes good sense and is an avenue for young producers to get a foothold in business,” said Jack Smith, president of the Iowa Barn Foundation and Epworth farmer.

The Choose Iowa Farm Open House, planned for Sept. 13 and 14, will coincide with the IBF’s annual Fall All-State Barn Tour, which offers additional opportunities for exploration.

For more information about Iowa Barn Foundation tours, visit iowabarnfoundation.org/barn-tours.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.