Offered by Lulu’s Farm
What is agritourism? Agritourism covers a wide variety of recreational, educational, and other leisure activities and services provided by farmers, ranchers, and food-based businesses that make up a local food economy. Those activities and services are then experienced first hand by consumers who value the activity or service they receive, and actively seek it out. There are three general classifications of agritourism activities: on-farm/ranch, food-based, and heritage activities.
Why is it a big deal? As farm and ranch land is lost to development, the desire for community supported agriculture (CSA) and farm type experiences increases. The national trend towards awareness of food quality and where it comes from is a hot-button issue that is gaining momentum throughout the United States, especially with younger families. For the state of Colorado this means a multi-billion dollar economic impact! This trending interest in local food production and farm to table experiences, combined with our rich agricultural heritage, current standing as one of the largest agricultural hubs in the state, being located on the I-76 corridor recently dubbed the “Pollinator Highway” with a commitment to bee preservation efforts, and our proximity to the Denver metro area, all adds up to a multi-million dollar economic impact for Brighton and Adams County.
Recognizing this, in 2016, after months of work by city staff, consultants, a citizen task force, and input from residents, the City of Brighton adopted a new comprehensive Master Plan to guide and manage the exploding growth. Concurrently, Adams County went through the same process, adopting what is now called the “District Plan” with the express purpose of preserving, protecting, and promoting the agricultural character and offerings of the southern area of Brighton and adjacent unincorporated Adams County. Concerted efforts were made between the City and County to ensure the plans synced. This cooperation resulted in the creation of a joint planning commission with representatives appointed from both City and County.
Our area is fortunate to have a variety of working farms and food production related businesses that bring a multitude of family-friendly experiences and opportunities for residents and visitors. With an emphasis on creating cohesive opportunities for industry, developers, and investors as well, you can expect to see a lot of additions to the agritourism offerings in and around Brighton over the next few years.
This is a terrific opportunity for not only Brighton and Adams County residents, but also for those outside of the immediate area, to enjoy the benefits and experience of farm to table products and activities.
As we head into the height of the harvest season, you’ll see several fun, family friendly activities at Lulu’s Farm, including the Brighton Chile Fest (formerly Denver Chili Fest) on September 9, the new Lulu’s Brew & Que (a Kansas City Barbeque Society sanctioned state championship barbeque competition) on September 29-30, and our annual Pumpkin Patch. And of course, don’t forget we carry the largest variety of freshly roasted chiles in the region, tons of farm fresh produce and specialty “made in Colorado” products available only at Lulu’s, locally raised grass fed American Heritage Ranch meats, locally harvested honey, a wide selection of grills and smokers, possibly the largest selection of canning supplies around, and so much more! Lulu’s isn’t just a produce market, it’s an adventure! For additional information follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/Lulusfarm) and check our website (LulusFarm.com).
Click here to view Lulu’s Farm on The Brighton Buzz Business Directory
