Announcing Regional Agrotourism: Umbrella Market Farm Tours | Eastern North Carolina Now

News Release:

    The Uptown Greenville Umbrella Market announces its second annual Umbrella Market Farm Tour on Sunday, September 28 from 10am to 6pm (individual farm times will vary slightly). Six farms will be participating: Mac Meadows (Louisburg), Leggett Farm Organics (Washington), Southside Farms (Chocowinity), Parnell Farms (Williamston), Homegrown Agriculture (Bethel), and Renston Garden Market (Winterville).

    "I've always known the importance of agriculture to Eastern North Carolina," said Umbrella Market Manager Robin Ashley, "but organizing the Umbrella Market this season really drove home just how diverse our farms are. I am thrilled these farms leading the local food economy will be opening their doors for the public to see where their food comes from and to learn about farming in the 21st century."

    Though all farms will operate like an open house for the farm tours with people coming and going as they please, how each farm participates is up to them. Some will have activities and offer a more hands-on experience for kids and adults. Mac Meadows, a farm specializing in organic, farm-fed Scottish Highland beef, will even have BBQ chicken fresh off the grill.

    Jo Ann Parnell is very excited to continue Parnell Farms' expansion into agrotourism with this event. The farm is ready to show off their pumpkin patch, old corn shellers, and hand corn meal grinder. There is also a milk the cow simulation, petting zoo, and country store available for guests.

    At Renston Garden Market in Winterville, you can take a walking tour of the farm will all-you-can eat muscadine grapes. In addition to great fall vegetables, you can visit the art studio for pottery, paintings, and sculpture. Homegrown Agriculture in Bethel will offer a tour of the farm and guests can take advantage of a discount on freezer items.

    "This will be a great opportunity for adults and kids alike," said Ashley. "Whether you are a local food connoisseur or are interested in learning for yourself or sharing information about our regional producers with your kids, you will come away from these farms with a better understanding of the local foods movement and what it means to be a farmer."

    Contact: Umbrella Market manager Robin Ashley at robin@uptowngreenville.com or (252) 902-6853 for more information.


    For more information about Uptown Greenville, go to uptowngreenville.com or call Director Bianca Shoneman at (252) 561-8400. Contact Carl Rees, Economic Development Manager with the City of Greenville at crees@greenvillenc.gov or (252) 329-4510 or Kelsey Anderson - (828)329-5309, Kelsey@uptowngreenville.com