Farming Our Backyard
East side farms open their doors — and fields — for the East Austin Urban Farm Tour
Living in Austin, we can enjoy farm life without ever leaving the city limits. On Sunday, April 13, four vibrant farms in the heart of the city will play host to the annual East Austin Urban Farm Tour.
Boggy Creek Farm, HausBar Farms, Rain Lily Farm and Springdale Farm, located within easy walking distance of each other in the Govalle neighborhood, will lead guided tours of the farms, all while sharing their experiences and wisdom. Guests can stroll the fields, sample food, meet the animals and pepper the farmers with questions about successful growing techniques to use at home.
“This is our way to spread the word about urban farms, educate the public and showcase the work that we do,” said Paula Foore of Springdale Farm. “We like to think it’s all about the tour, but we know people are also coming to taste the amazing food from the talented chefs we work with during the tour and all year long.”
“This is our way to spread the word about urban farms, educate the public and showcase the work that we do,” said Paula Foore of Springdale Farm.
Each farm will offer tasty samples from several restaurants, food artisans and beverage vendors. Popular restaurants Bufalina, Café Josie, Driskill Grill, Eden East, Fabi + Rosi, Fresa’s Chicken al Carbon, Hillside Farmacy, Jeffrey’s, Josephine House, Kome Sushi Kitchen, Lenoir, Olive & June, Qui and Wink will serve small bites made with farm-fresh products.
Not to be outdone, local breweries, distilleries and wine shops including Live Oak Brewing, Hops & Grain, Dripping Springs Vodka, Treaty Oak Distilling Company and The Vineyard at Florence will also be on hand with samples of their libations.
Proceeds from the tour benefit the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, a national organization that supports independent family farmers and protects a healthy and productive food supply for American consumers.
“As farmers, we spend most of our time in the fields and selling our produce. We don’t have much time and availability to get organized politically, and FARFA serves as our voice on important issues,” says Foore.
The East Austin Urban Tour is a rain or shine event, and purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially considering the tour has sold out the last two years.
East Austin Urban Farm Tour
Sunday, April 13, 1 pm- 5 pm. Tickets are $50; children under 10 are free. Tickets are available here.
Boggy Creek Farm: 3414 Lyons Road, Austin, TX 78702
HausBar Farms: 3300 Govalle Avenue, Austin, TX 78702
Rain Lily Farm: 914 Shady Lane, Austin, TX 78702
Springdale Farm: 755 Springdale Road, Austin, TX 78702