MEDIA RELEASE TASTE REAL
Wellington County, Ont. – Get ready to taste, explore, and celebrate the best of harvest season! Taste Real’s beloved Fall Rural Romp returns on Saturday, September 27, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, offering food lovers and families a behind-the-scenes look at 23 unique food and farm destinations across southern Wellington County and the City of Guelph.
Now in its 20th year, the Rural Romp has grown into a signature agri-tourism event, giving visitors an interactive backstage pass to the region’s local food scene. The self-guided food and farm tour provides a unique opportunity to meet the farmers and food producers behind local flavours, discover new agri-food destinations, and enjoy hands-on fun for all ages.
“Every fall, our farmers and food producers open their gates to showcase their farms and businesses,” said Warden Chris White. “The Rural Romp is a unique opportunity for participants to experience the passion, innovation, and care that goes into local food in our region. Each stop offers a memorable experience and demonstrates why Wellington County and Guelph are known as premier agricultural destinations.”
This year’s event features stops across Centre Wellington, Erin, Guelph/Eramosa, Puslinch and the City of Guelph. From alpaca farms and apple orchards to flower fields and craft distilleries, each location offers rompers a taste of rural life and local agriculture.
Event highlights include:
- Guided tours and interactive learning experiences
- Farm-fresh tastings and harvest snacks
- Family friendly activities including wagon rides, corn mazes, and children’s games
- Greenhouse visits, fall décor shopping and more!
“The County is proud to host events like the Rural Romp that help people discover and support local agriculture,” commented Jeff Duncan, Chair of the County’s Economic Development Committee. “Taste Real does an excellent job of curating an event where visitors can experience authentic farm life, and our local farmers and food producers can share their stories and connect with new customers. These meaningful connections are so important to the strength of our agricultural communities and local economy.”
Social Media and Contest
Rural Romp visitors are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using #RuralRomp and #TasteReal. Participants can also take part in the Rural Romp Treasure Hunt by answering questions at participating locations, with each correct answer counting as an entry to win a $100 local food gift certificate.
Event Information
Rural Romp maps and complete event details, including a list of participating locations and activities, are available at www.tastereal.ca. Admission to participating locations is free, though some stops may charge for specific activities.
For additional information about Taste Real and the Rural Romp, visit www.tastereal.ca or follow @tastereal on Facebook and Instagram.