Farm-City BBQ at Collier County Fairgrounds, Naples, Florida, USA
Thousands of people gathered in Collier County for the annual Farm-City Barbecue, a cherished Thanksgiving tradition that has been uniting farmers, families, and local leaders for nearly 70 years.
The event offered more than just a steak lunch. It was a celebration of community and the traditions that link the coast to Collier’s agricultural heart.
Jaime Weisinger from Lipman Family Farms explained the origins of the event.
“This event came out of an interest when the farmers had a freeze event and lost their crops. The city folk came and fed them at this time of year every year. And so the year after, the farmers returned the favor and did the same. And what came out of this was Farm City Barbecue,” said Weisinger.
Patrick Dearborn, Fire Commissioner for Greater Naples Fire Rescue, highlighted the diversity of attendees.
“Seeing everybody from hillbillies to country folk to firefighters to cops to school teachers, you name it. They’re out here today for one great cause, man, fellowship coming together,” said Dearborn.
Candace Wilson from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority shared her thoughts on the event’s purpose.
“Seeing that all of us are here for the same purpose, to see what the community can work, getting to know everyone, getting ourselves to be visible in the community,” said Wilson.
Dearborn also noted the joy of interacting with community members.
“It’s just cool to rub elbows with the cool people in town, but to see all the smiling faces and hand out butter packets and bread, it’s awesome,” said Dearborn.
Weisinger emphasized the significance of Collier County’s agricultural industry.
“Folks that live on the coast really don’t understand how big the industry is east of Interstate 75, a lot of times. And little do they know that almost 70% of the nation’s tomatoes come right here out of Collier County this time of year,” said Weisinger.
“I must say, the steak is perfect, much better than expected,” said Moreno.
Weisinger encouraged attendees to appreciate the farmers’ efforts.
“Hey, the more steaks you want to cook, the better, you know. Thank a farmer for those one of these days, though,” said Weisinger.
Michael Wynn, Board Chair of Farm City Barbecue, explained the broader impact of the event.
“It helps educate the business population about the impact of the agricultural community, with $8 billion as an overall economic impact. Additionally, we work closely with youth leadership organizations here. So we’re really developing the future leaders of Collier County,” said Wynn.
Jessica and Tiffany Cusick from the 4-H, USDA Youth Development Program shared their experience.
“I definitely learn more about how to talk to people and stuff, and it helps just to build confidence in that. It helps the animals to get more used to people, too, touching them and stuff,” said the Cusicks.
Wynn noted that ticket sales were strong despite challenges.
“We’re not gonna hit a record on tickets this year, but we’re pretty darn close to it,” said Wynn.
Reflecting on the event’s resilience, Wynn said, “I think this year is unique, given all the interruptions that we’ve had, from COVID, from hurricanes, etc, I really feel like the community has finally come back, and we are back in our groove. It’s the 68th, you know, annual event, but this feels like we have our momentum back, stronger than ever.”
Attendees expressed that the Farm-City Barbecue is a perfect way to begin Thanksgiving, with good food, good company, and a tradition that unites the entire community.
Originally reported on by Lauren Halpern for WINK News. You can see the original video & article HERE
