National Heirloom Expo returns to Santa Rosa

Expect to see all kinds of vegetables at the National Heirloom Expo. (Photos: Debbie Arrington)

This must-see event offers latest trends in old-fashioned food

It’s the world’s fair of good, clean food.

The National Heirloom Expo returns this week to the Sonoma County Fairgrounds for three days of the latest trends in old-fashioned vegetables, fruit, farm techniques and more.

Aimed at anyone interested in growing or eating food without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers, this event has become a must-see for Northern California gardeners and organic farmers. It's open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Sept. 11-13. The fairgrounds are located at 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa.

More than 100 speakers and demonstrations will tackle all sorts of topics, from African-American heirlooms (11:30 a.m. Tuesday) to "Unstoppable Community Activism" (10 a.m. Thursday). 

Beekeeping, seed saving and building a successful farming business are among the down-to-earth practical discussions. A marketplace offers scores of organic and natural food vendors. Music and food samples are almost nonstop.
A mountain of squash is quite a sight.

The biggest draw is the display of heirloom vegetables, fruit and flowers, filling large exhibit halls at the fairgrounds. At past expos, a mountain of squash towered to the ceiling. The flower event includes an eye-popping dahlia show.

Tickets are $15 at the gate; children 12 and under admitted free. Details: www.theheirloomexpo.com.

- Debbie Arrington

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