There are a million reasons to come to the 23rd annual Hoes Down Harvest Festival the first weekend in October—celebration, laughter, friendships, food—but I took it upon myself to narrow it down. So, with much fanfare and flair, here are the top ten reasons to come to the 2010 Hoes Down.

#10: The cow milking demonstration. Full Belly Farm‘s very own Dru Rivers will show you just how strong her hands are while milking our cow, Pinto Bean. Watching those beautiful streams of milk fill up the silver milk buckets is pretty incredible!

#9: Every cent made at the Hoes Down Harvest Festival benefits the Ecological Farming Association and other community groups, such as the Esparto Chapter of Future Farmers of America, Yolo Land Trust, and the Community Alliance with Family Farmers. By attending, you are supporting organizations that help shape young farmers.

#8: The music is some of the most toe- tapping, boot- stomping, knee- slapping, good time music we have ever featured at the Hoes Down. From Or, the Whale to Big B and his Snake Oil Saviors, the tunes at the Hoes Down make a great reason to venture to Full Belly for the weekend.

#7: The wold-renowned Children’s Area is truly one of a kind. Kids of all ages can spend hours crawling through the 700- bale hay fort, turning wool into yarn or felt, churning ice cream, or petting the various animals featured in the 4-H petting zoo. The activities are endless- and so is the fun!

#6: Have you ever wondered how to raise backyard chickens? How to prune a peach tree? The 2010 Hoes Down workshop lineup is one of a kind, and packed with learning opportunities.

#5: This year, we have some exciting new additions, including members from Circus Bella, online ticket sales, and the newly invigorated games area, including the Manure Pitch Off and World Famous Olive Olympics. This Hoes Down is not to be missed!

#4: After spending the night camped under the stars, you can wake up to a delicious breakfast and a Sunday filled with activities—from in-depth workshops and seminars to REALLY fun farm clean-up, you won’t want to go home early!

#3: The food alone is worth any drive- such mouthwatering sensations can only be found at the Hoes Down! From organic and locally grown fruits and vegetables to fresh Prather Ranch beef, you will definitely leave with your belly full and happy taste buds!

#2: As members of an incredibly rich agricultural community, this event gives you a chance to interact with other members of the same community. The Hoes Down is about celebration- it is a time to form new friendships, strengthen relationships, and spend a weekend playing with those you appreciate and love.

#1: The location! Full Belly Farm is a real farm—home to hard working people and real, dirty-handed farmers. We are so happy to open up our farm and hearts to all those who venture out for the Hoes Down. So, please consider this your formal invitation to the Hoes Down Harvest Festival on October 2 and 3. Kick up your heels, celebrate rural living, and spend the first weekend of October on Full Belly Farm. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

To find our more information about the Hoes Down, visit our website. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at info@hoesdown.org. See you on October 2!

By Hallie Muller, Full Belly Farm

Related posts:

• Top 10 Reasons to Attend the Hoes Down
• Hoes Down Harvest Festival