A farmers' fair in Elhovo showcases organic food from the region

The eighth edition of the "ECO Basket, Please!" exhibition will take place on 6 and 7 September

published on 9/6/24 8:35 AM

Photo: migelhovo.org

Elhovo is located in the south-eastern part of the Thracian Plain, a region of fertile land between the Strandzha and Sakar mountains. One of the largest rivers in Bulgaria, the Tundja, flows close to the town, and there are 21 villages with agricultural land nearby, which administratively belong to the Yambol district.

On 6 and 7 September, Elhovo will host culinary demonstrations using local produce. For the eighth time, a two-day festival - "ECO Basket, Please! The main element of the event is the participation of small local producers and food manufacturers who are committed to organic farming and agriculture.

Visitors can meet honey producers, owners of small dairies and meat and sausage producers from nearby farms. There are also rosehip growers and farmers who grow seasonal fruit and vegetables using conservation farming techniques. All the farms are located in the communities of Elhovo, Bolyarovo and Tundzha.

"It is not easy for them to get away from their daily work and take one or two days to participate in the exhibition" - said in an interview with Radio Bulgaria Neli Kadieva, chairwoman of the local initiative group "Elhovo - Bolyarovo" and organiser of the farmers' exhibition in the town:

"We understand that these small producers need a platform to showcase their products, but many are hesitant to step out and face consumers at a market stall. We're gradually helping to train them. These are micro-enterprises, often family-run, and it's hard to spare a hand for events like exhibitions. But it's worth the effort. As consumers, we often miss out on the quality products from these small farms because they don't always make it to the big stores. Some are available in selected chains, but we have to actively seek them out.

The name of the exhibition "ECO Basket, please!" comes from the project of the same name, which involves Bulgaria and Slovenia and is funded under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.

"Over the years, farmers from both countries have taken turns visiting different farms. Although there won't be any Slovenian farmers at this year's fair in Elhovo, I can assure you that they have left with lasting positive impressions of our natural resources and delicious Bulgarian products," says Neli Kadieva. "For us, it is both interesting and beneficial to work with partners from this small and picturesque country.

Photos: Local Initiative Group "Elhovo - Bolyarovo"

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