Each season, Real Maine connects you to events and news related to Maine agriculture. This August, explore all a Maine summer has to offer, from agricultural fairs to farmers’ markets—and even the Maine Ice Cream Trail! Support Maine farms and choose local farm ingredients and products during the remainder of summer, and have fun doing it!

Find Maine flavors and farm goods wherever you shop. Summer is a great time to shop at a local farm stand or farmers’ market where you can buy a variety of products. Look for Maine brands when grocery shopping at a local retailer or supermarket—many stores showcase Maine products. If you are looking for a particular item, feel free to ask!

Visit a local agricultural fair where you will see youth caring for their livestock and practicing lifelong skills, as well as people of all ages displaying their handiwork in the fairs’ exhibition halls. Be sure to enjoy your favorite fair food while you explore the fairgrounds.

Buy a fresh cut flower bouquet. Fresh seasonal stems found at local shops and stands are a colorful way to brighten up any space or to give as a cheerful gift.

Try a new recipe or start preserving the fresh harvest with canning. You can find a variety of bulk choices at u-pick, pick-your-own “PYO” farms, and even farm stands. Need help with recipes? Let UMaine Cooperative Extension be your guide.

Many fairs, festivals, farmers’ markets, and pop-up markets are summer favorites. Visit Real Maine.com for more information.

Take the scenic route. Maine’s rural charm and beautiful landscapes are home to many farms growing food and other farm products, all while caring for the land. Plan your trip with the RealMaine.com trip planner tool.

Sample cold treats along the Maine Ice Cream Trail. Dozens of scoop shops and ice cream parlors across the state invite you to savor all the creamy, delicious ice cream, frozen custards and gelato you desire this summer—and it’s easy to find businesses using Maine ingredients! If you’re looking for ways to support a few local businesses while enjoying a cool treat, follow the Real Maine Ice Cream Trail!

Which Maine agricultural experiences will you try this month? Visit RealMaine.com for more information about agricultural products, events, and places to explore.

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