One of the very best signs of summer is the abundance of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Be sure to visit a local farm this season to enjoy the refreshing flavours and the many health benefits of locally-grown produce.

Kick off summer with corn: Soccer fans may be enjoying corn in South Africa during the World Cup – one of the country’s main vegetables – but Ontarians can celebrate at home since sweet corn is available locally in mid-to-late July! Learn more about this delicious and versatile vegetable, which can be used in many recipes perfect for World Cup celebrations.

With summer vacation just around the corner, visiting a local farm is a perfect way to enjoy the sunshine with the whole family and keep the kids entertained.

Why visit a farm with the kids?

• It’s an entertaining activity that doesn’t break the bank.
• Keeps kids active: gets them away from fast food and unglued from video games by spending the day in the sunshine playing with the animals and enjoying fresh food. In fact, many farms offer camps for kids that teach them crafts, cooking and farming, all while enjoying the great outdoors.
• Keeps their brains stimulated over the summer by teaching them about nature, fresh food and animals in a hands-on environment.
• There’s something for everyone: while your kids are enjoying pony rides and petting zoos, parents can enjoy the farm’s fresh market and gift shop filled with unique products for every occasion.

By using OFFMA’s Find a Farm locator, you can quickly find the perfect farm to keep your kiddos happy and entertained in the sun this season.

Summer is peak season for peaches, which are delicious on their own, in a chutney, salad, dessert or alongside meat and poultry dishes. Learn about the types of peaches, their nutritional benefits and how to easily peel them to include in many recipes.

Farm fresh farmers' markets and on-farm markets are in full swing across the province. You can find a farm near you by visiting the Find a Farm locator.

Starting on July 14, Nathan Phillips Square Farmers’ Market introduces “Fresh Wednesdays” – seven free noon-hour concerts to complement your shopping experience. In July, groove to the music of Canadian artists including Arian Gillis, Mandippal and Dylan Murray.

Looking for peaches at the farmers’ market? Visit these growers:

• Karen High from Kar-Dean Fruit Farm (at Metro Hall)
• Torrie Warner from Warner Farms (at both markets)
• Ed Bohonos from Bohonos Farm (at Nathan Phillips Square)
• Greg Bilski from Bilski Farm (at Nathan Phillips Square)