Food Day Canada will celebrate its 15th anniversary on Aug. 4.
The event, founded by Elora resident Anita Stewart in 2003, is a day for Canadians to share stories while celebrating local food.
“Fifteen years ago in 2003, our borders were closed to Canadian beef. It may have been an economic disaster, but it was not a culinary one,” officials stated in a press release.
“In response, the World’s Longest Barbecue was born: Canadians rallied, went to their grills, and barbecued Canadian beef to show their support.”
Officials say the event helped to “(save) the industry.”
Over the years, many renowned Canadian chefs have joined the annual party, renamed Food Day Canada, a national celebration of local food celebrated on the August long weekend.
Participating restaurants in the Wellington County area include:
– Borealis Grille and Bar in Guelph;
– Drayton Chop House;
– The Elora Brewing Company;
– Envers of Morriston;
– FanJoy Restaurant in Hillsburgh;
– Miijidaa café and bistro in Guelph; and
– Scozia @ The Breadalbane in Fergus.
As an added bonus on Aug. 4, Food Day Canada’s 15th anniversary will be celebrated by lighting the most recognizable – and tallest – beacon in the western hemisphere, the CN Tower in Toronto.
Event officials say the Canadian food system is facing “similar, perhaps even graver challenges” than those presented in 2003.
Food Day Canada officials are challenging all Canadians to “have a party and honour our own ingredients, with one simple goal: culinary sovereignty.”
For more information visit fooddaycanada.ca. Participants are also encouraged to active on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
