DIG IN Promises to be a Feast for the Senses

Check out this article from Breen Fain for Win In Indy - The Indianapolis eNewsletter. To see the photos from the garden, link here. You can also visit the Indianapolis Facebook page and join the "Name that Veggie!" contest to win two free tickets to Dig IN. The photos are all fruits & veggies from the Slow Food Garden.

Dig IN Promises to be a Feast for the Senses
by Breena Fain

Agriculture.

In Indiana, we know the word well. From a historical sense, we're a leader in the field (pun intended). From an economical sense, our state depends on it to prosper. From a sociological sense, the bounty brings people together! But from my sense, it's what makes Indiana so unique. When repeating the word in my head, I couldn't help but concentrate more on the suffix - "culture." Indeed, the prefix "agri" is clearly important, but hear me out.

The (agri)culture of Indiana is more than just farm fresh foods in our markets and restaurants. It's about embracing what our great state has provided us. It's about appreciating what local farmers have provided us. And most importantly, it's about taking the time to just enjoy it all. In my opinion, Indiana natives know how to do this extremely well.

One way to show our gratitude is through engaging in the Slow Food Movement. From seeding to eating, this movement is all about taking the time to appreciate the growth of our harvests, cooking it with care and savoring every bite with others who vow to do the same. The folks from Growing Places Indy - a non-profit organization committed to the cultivating "culture" of food and urban agriculture in Indianapolis - are leaders in such a movement. They have a Slow Food Garden in the White River State Park filled with delicious vegetables that go straight to local markets and restaurants.

Getting hungry yet?

Well, to satisfy both your intellectual and literal appetite, the White River State Park will be hosting "Dig In: A Taste of Indiana" this Sunday, August 29, from 12-6 p.m. The event will feature educational discussion panels, cooking demonstrations, urban gardening exhibits and local chef Q&A sessions.

And, of course, it couldn't be a "Taste of Indiana" without delicious wine tastings, beer and food pairing classes and much more! And this is all included in the ticket price! In advance, tickets are only $15 for adults, $7 for children and those under 3 years old are free. This is a truly tasty event that is perfect for all ages - "A feast for the senses" indeed.

So celebrate all that Indiana agriculture has to offer and remember to take the time to enjoy it, bite by bite.