July 2025

14 July is a month when nature gives back in abundance. Across con- tinents and cultures, this is a time when fruits and vegetables hit their flavorful peak, sparking celebra - tions that draw communities to- gether. While much of the global spotlight shines on India’s famed Mango Festival, where hundreds of mango varieties are showcased and tasted, July’s agricultural abun- dance also inspires a wide range of local farm events across the Unit- ed States. These gatherings, often simple and family-friendly, serve as reminders of the value of sea- sonal produce and the joy of recon- necting with the land that feeds us. In the U.S., July marks a critical point in the summer growing sea- son. Markets are full to the brim with sweet corn, heirloom toma- toes, zucchini, green beans, cu- cumbers, bell peppers, blueberries, watermelons, and stone fruits like peaches and plums. Small farms, agricultural co-ops, and even ur- ban gardens take advantage of this moment to host open-house events, pick-your-own days, and weekend festivals that highlight the rich- ness of their harvests. In places like the Hudson Valley in New York, the Midwest’s rolling farmland, or North Carolina’s Piedmont region, these local celebrations offer more than fresh produce—they offer connection. One standout example this year is the Stone Barns Summer Market, held from July 12 to 14 just outside of Tarrytown, New York. Known for its commitment to regenerative agriculture, the event invites visi- tors to walk the farm’s extensive acreage, sample dishes made with seasonal ingredients, and learn directly from farmers and chefs Farm Festivities Mango Mania and Summer’s Flavorful Bounty