CORRALITOS — An estimated 2,000 people visited farms throughout Corralitos Sunday, stepping into orchards, walking through crop-rows and delving into the inner-workings of an industry normally closed to the public.
The Open Farm Tours, now in its fourth year, more than doubled its numbers from 2016, said organizer Penny Ellis.
Attendees had 10 farms from which to choose, in addition to Aladdin Nursery, which served as the event’s hub and lunch stop.
The event was created as a way to connect people with the farmers who grow their food, and encourage them to shop locally.
It was also designed for people who want to know how their food was produced, which is important as consumers are increasingly switching to organic and locally-sourced food, Ellis said.
Such a connection also offers a measure of control in a time when both national and international news seems overwhelming, Ellis said.
“In general they want something in their lives that matters and that they can do something about,” she said. “I think we all need to connect in that way.”
Volunteer coordinator Ellen Farmer said the event drew visitors from throughout the Bay Area.
“We were really happy with the turnout,” she said. “We just felt really grateful that so many people felt like this is how they wanted to spend their day.”
