Inching closer to normalcy this spring means we’ll finally be able to safely visit our local producers for yummy meals, tours, classes, and other events this summer, and we can’t wait! Here are a few we recommend adding to your bucket list this season:

Together Farms: If you’ve experienced summer in the Chippewa Valley, you’ve probably already heard about Together Farms’ wildly popular Burger Nights. Every Thursday night, Friday night, and Saturday night from May through October, the Schneider family opens up an on-farm restaurant where they offer delicious 100% grass-fed and grass-finished burgers, drinks, and sometimes even live music. Grab a friend, bring a lawn chair and a yard game, and enjoy a meal while gazing at their beautiful farm!

Dixon’s Apple Orchard: Owned and operated by the Mullane family, Dixon’s Apple Orchard in Cadott doubles as a scenic stop for picking up their famous Champagne apples and a gorgeous wedding venue. As of 2021, the Mullanes are also now the new owners of Autumn Harvest Winery in Chippewa Falls. Stop by the winery for a tasting when it reopens in May or schedule a tour of Dixon’s Apple Orchard to see their grounds, get some apples (when they’re in-season), and learn about their fascinating history.

The Muddy Feet Forty: Interested in learning more about beekeeping? Schedule a Honey Bee Hive Tour at The Muddy Feet Forty’s apiary just outside of Menomonie! Tickets include a tour of the inside of a live hive, during which you’ll get suited up in sting-proof suits, learn about the different levels of a hive from the honey and pollen stores to the brood chamber, and maybe even see the Queen Bee.

Dancing Yarrow Farm to Fork Retreat: Originally founded in 1974, Dancing Yarrow Farm was taken over by Tommy Folden and Maria Bamonti in 2019, who now market their land as a holistic wellness retreat. Escape the busyness of life by staying at one of their campsites or cabins, renting their lodge, or attending yoga, meditation classes, pizza nights, and other events they host.

Lucette Brewing Company: If you love a good beer and wood-fired pizza, stopping by Lucette’s eatery in Menomonie is a must! They offer a wide range of house-made pizzas and beverages that you can enjoy inside or out on the lawn.

Jeremiah’s Bullfrog Fish Farm: If outdoor activities are more up your alley, Jeremiah’s Bullfrog Fish Farm in Menomonie boasts fishing and fun for all! They offer fishing, tours of the hatchery, and scenic natural areas through which you can wander, as well as lunch on their hobo shore and beverages around the grounds or in their screened porch.

Forager’s Harvest: Have a plant you need identified? Or want to learn how to do it yourself? Attend one of renowned author and forager Sam Thayer’s of Forager’s Harvest classes at their orchard. Or stop by their shop in Bruce on Tuesdays and Thursdays to chat.

This article was originally published in the May/June 2021 issue of our bi-monthly newsletter, The Morsel. If you’d like to read more stories like this one and stay up to date on the latest co-op news and events, pick up a print copy in-store on your next grocery run or find more news on our website here.