Come taste the flavor of the Piedmont! The Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission and Piedmont Environmental Council are co-hosting a food expo to showcase the region’s locally-grown food and beverages.
This two-part event will take place on Sunday, September 8 at the Lord Fairfax Community College campus in Warrenton. From fresh produce, succulent meats and dairy to award-winning wine, beer, and cider, Virginia’s Piedmont has a bounty of products to tempt commercial buyers, foodies and every-day eaters alike.
Sunday, September 8, 2019
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Farm-to-Table Showcase for Local Food Producers and Buyers
Local food producers and buyers are invited to network and build new purchasing relationships! (not open to the public)
Vendor tables will be provided for local farmers, value-added producers and specialty beverage makers to set up displays, provide food samples and information about their products.
Buyers—ranging from restaurant chefs to wholesale and institutional buyers—will have the opportunity to meet producers and learn what local products are available.
*Please note: There is a $50 refundable deposit (refunded if you attend) for both vendors and buyers.
Register and reserve your spot >>
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Public Tasting
Come taste the flavor of the Piedmont! Once the exclusive buyer-producer networking event ends at 4pm, the room is open to the public for free sampling and purchasing of locally-grown food and beverages.
Flavor of the Piedmont Tasting showcases local farmers and the food they provide our community. From fruits, vegetables, meats and dairy to wine, beer and cider, the Piedmont has deep agricultural roots and you’re invited to celebrate the hard work of our farmers!
Sample products from local farmers, purchase items to take home and enjoy family-friendly activities. An afternoon getting to know your local farmers is an afternoon well spent!
Tickets are $10 per adult (>12 years old), $5 per child (5-12 years old), and free for children under 5.
FAQs
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Are samples free?
Yes, during the public tasting event, the ticket price entitles attendees to free samples and children’s activities.=
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Do vendors need to stay for the entire event?
Vendors are required to stay for the full three hours (3:00-6:00pm). Commercial buyers can stay for as long as they wish.
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Do vendors need to bring product samples?
This is a tasting event, so small sample portions of your product are expected where feasible and will make a stronger impression on buyers.
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What do vendors need to bring to set up their booths?
A table and chairs will be provided for each vendor, or vendors may choose to bring their own. Vendors are responsible for linens and table decor. Some sort of signage or a tablecloth/runner with your business name is recommended.
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What informational materials should vendors bring?
Vendors should bring business cards or other printed materials with their contact information, so buyers can follow-up. Product lists and any other literature you can share with buyers is helpful. If you have a website or facebook page, be sure to include that information.
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What cooking equipment is allowed?
There are ten vendor tables that have electricity available for use with electric grills. No gas or propane stoves are allowed. Sterno and crockpots are okay. If you need an outlet, you can make that request when you register. Please bring an extra extension cord!
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Are alcoholic beverage samples and sales allowed?
Alcoholic beverage vendors are allowed to give small samples and sell unopened bottles only. No ‘by the glass’ sales!
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Do alcoholic beverage vendors need an ABC license?
PEC will have an ABC license to allow for alcoholic beverages at the event BUT each beverage vendor (beer, wine, cider) must check with their local ABC agent to see if they need any other license.
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How many people are expected to attend the event?
The event space holds 250 people maximum, including vendors and event support staff. Because it is a ‘come and go’ event, we aren’t able to estimate how many people will attend, but attendee turnover is less likely than for a full-day event. Vendors can assume it will work like a small farmers market and plan samples accordingly.
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What questions are buyers likely to ask of vendors?
Virginia Cooperative Extension specialists recommend producers be prepared to address the following potential buyer concerns:
-Reliability
-Quantity
-Price
-Consistency
-Growing practices
-Farm location
-Packaging
-Delivery
-Timing
-Shelf-life
-Food Safety
-Animal conditions
-Certifications
-Insurance
-Best handling practices
-Any services added - How do I get my refund?
Refunds will automatically be sent out the day after the event.