Slow Food Fever
Grab your helmets and grease your bike chain—Pemberton’s Slow Food Cycle is back for another year of farmers, fabulous food and fat tires!
Celebrating its fourteenth year, the annual bike adventure pedals into town Sunday, August 19, with the aim of showcasing sustainable farming.
“This year’s event allows you to travel by bike through Pemberton Meadows farmland to meet local growers and sample produce fresh from the field,” says organizer Carlee Cindric.
Attracting 2,500+ cyclists, the two-wheeled Pemby love fest has something for everyone along its 45-kilometre route—fresh veggies, baked goods, clothing, artwork, jewellery, homemade cosmetics, snacks and more.
“The bike ride encourages participants to learn about the importance of farmland, gives townspeople an opportunity to spend the day in the country and gives farmers and consumers a chance to connect,” says Cindric.
One of the great things about the Slow Food Cycle is you go at your own pace and do as much of the route as you like—until your legs and tummy say stop. “I’m excited about the amazing farms and vendors we have lined up this year,” says Cindric.
Fifteen farms—along with twenty vendors—will open up their gates on August 19.
Some farms not to miss: Helmer’s Organic Farm, Plentywild, Across the Creek Organics, and Bandit Farms. Two new farms joining the ranks this year: Edible Eden Farm and Copper Cayuse Outfitters.
“This event was and is inspired by the principles of Slow Food,” says Cindric, which, she explains, is a global, grassroots association that links the pleasure of food with a commitment to community and the environment.
To keep folks safe, the road will be closed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Only slow-moving farm tractors and fellow bikers on the same pedal-powered mission will be allowed. You have to bike in and bike out.
Some insider tips: come early, bring plenty of water and cash (most vendors are cash-only), pack nibbles/sunscreen/bag for goodies, pre-register, and follow the rules of the road.
The future of food is local, so come up to Pemberton and pedal through its delicious natural buffet. You won’t be disappointed. It beats fast food any day!