Here’s an opportunity for us to support all the local food purveyors in the Piedmont and celebrate a holiday that for many has become a grilling outing. According to the Weber grill folks, Independence Day is the number one grilling holiday in the United States. There are no shortage of local products: vegetables, poultry, meats, and even cheeses that taste like a celebration when they visit the grill.

We have talked endlessly about locavore issues and now a new organaization has sprouted up to give a major shout out for sourcing our ingredients as “locally, sustainably, and deliciously as possible,” The Food Independence Day Organization wants everyone to get involved.

In our region we, of course, have the bounty of offerings from purveyors and restaurants that are committed to sourcing as many local products as possible. If you’re doing the grilling, don’t forget the farm markets and stands throughout our region that carry the grower’s products or visit the producers directly, such as, Fields of Athenry Farm, Woodtrail Graziers, Ayrshire Farm, or its market, the Home Farm Store. (Remember if you are visiting a farm, it is a good idea to call first).

If you want someone else to do the cooking, here are some places to support that personify the local experience: The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm, Tuscarora Mill, Clyde’s at Willow Creek Farm, The Wine Kitchen, Palladio Restaurant, and Fossett’s Restaurant. (Check to make certain they are open the 4th, they may be cooking at home that day)!

For a complete local experience, don’t forget the winegrowers and breweries!