On April 21, North Carolina State University’s Dining & CALS Office of Sustainability Programs hosted its annual Farm Feast, an outdoor meal served at Fountain Dining Hall, featuring nothing but local foods throughout NC. The food was served outside and with hay bales to sit on while a live country band played in the background. Students flocked from all over to attend the shakin’ evening event. There were beautiful floral decorations, picnic themed tablecloths, and cheerful dining employees greeting students as they received their locally grown dinner.
Photo by NC State Dining
There were a variety of dishes served at Farm Feast, including beet, arugula, & goat cheese salad from Sleepy Goat Farm, cornbread with local honey and poppy butter, magnolia carrots with maple syrup from Maple View Farm, and beef brisket and veggies in cabernet from Chatham Hill Winery in Morrisville. Utilizing local farms helped provide nutritious and tasty food for a cost effective price, raising awareness of the importance of eating local.
The menu made sure to offer gluten-free and vegetarian options as well, to provide for the students with allergies and dietary restrictions. And yes, they were very appealing!
Photo by NC State Dining
The main campus of NCSU was built on farmland, so the agricultural influence has always been present in the hearts of the students, teachers, and alumni. NCSU also has an Argoecology farm located just off Lake Wheeler road (right next to campus!). Planting occurs in the spring and summer, and harvesting all the nutritious foods is the highlight of the cooler seasons.
Photo by NC State Dining
The Agroecology Farm provides a variety of fruits, vegetables, and select flowers to all 3 dining halls, and was a key player in providing local food for Farm Feast.
Make sure to mark your calendars for next year’s Farm Feast for a memorable evening filled with music, delicious food, and a country vibe that can’t be beat!
Photo by NC State Dining