Food + Farm Exploration Center invites families and community members to experience Wisconsin agriculture firsthand during its U-Pick Harvest Day on Tuesday, July 7, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Center’s demonstration fields in Plover.
The free, family-friendly event offers visitors the opportunity to dig their own fresh Red Norland potatoes directly from the field and experience the journey from field to fork firsthand.
“As a nonprofit agricultural science center, our goal is to help people better understand where their food comes from,” said Alexandria Behrend, Executive Director of Food + Farm Exploration Center. “U-Pick is one of our favorite programs because it turns agriculture into an experience rather than a lesson. When families dig potatoes together and experience the journey from field to fork firsthand, those are the moments that bring our mission to life.”
In addition to harvesting fresh produce, visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities including a bounce house for children, concessions, and picnic space throughout the grounds.
Beyond creating hands-on learning opportunities, Food + Farm Exploration Center’s demonstration fields contribute to local food security efforts. Since opening, nearly 200,000 pounds of produce have been harvested through community U-Pick events or donated to local organizations, helping nourish communities throughout the region.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Time: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Location: Food + Farm Exploration Center, 3400 Innovation Drive, Plover, WI 54467
Admission: Free; no tickets required
Featured Harvest: Red Norland potatoes
Parking: Free onsite parking available
Know Before You Go
- Bags will be provided for harvesting; guests are asked not to bring their own bags or containers.
- Dress appropriately for a farm setting, including uneven terrain and walking in the fields.
- Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
- Harvest activities are weather dependent and event timing may be adjusted if necessary.
Guests can also purchase food and beverages during the event, including smoked pulled pork sandwiches, corn dogs, desserts, frozen lemonade, local beverages, and more.
Food + Farm Exploration Center extends its gratitude to the sponsors who helped make the 2026 U-Pick Harvest Days possible: WOW – WE CARE CHARITY, INC., Findorff, and Festival Foods.
Additional U-Pick Harvest Days featuring seasonal crops are planned throughout the summer and fall as produce becomes available. Guests can follow Food + Farm Exploration Center on social media or visit https://explorefoodandfarm.org for updates on upcoming harvest opportunities.
