Hoes Down Harvest Festival: Where Farming, Food & Community Come Alive
Early October in Yolo County brings a magical celebration that truly embodies the spirit of our region—the Hoes Down Harvest Festival. Rooted in more than three decades of tradition, this beloved fall gathering invites visitors to roll up their sleeves, feel the soil, and celebrate the land—just as we at Yolo Countryside cherish doing.
What Makes Hoes Down So Special
Hosted at the charming Full Belly Farm in Guinda, the 34th Annual Hoes Down takes place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Guests can immerse themselves in hands-on activities like pruning fruit trees, milking cows, making compost, and seasonal cooking—all while developing a deeper appreciation for sustainable agriculture. The festival features live bluegrass and contra music, a lively children’s area, a lively farmers’ market, and craft vendors showcasing handmade goods. Attendees can even camp overnight in the walnut orchard and wake up to a farm-fresh breakfast to round out the experience.
The celebration doesn’t end with Hoes Down. On Sunday, October 5, the farms of the Capay Valley open their gates for Open Farm Day—a chance to step directly onto the land, meet the farmers, and experience the heart of Yolo’s agricultural community. From farm tours and hands-on workshops to tastings, demonstrations, and bustling farm stands, it’s the perfect follow-up to the festival. Plan your route with this Open Farm Day map and make a day of exploring the Capay Valley.
Why These Events Represent Our Region So Well
At its core, Hoes Down is agritourism at its best. Rather than passively observing, visitors participate in the farm’s rhythms. They stroll the land, taste local organic fare, dance barefoot in the field, and share laughter under the stars. It’s not just a festival—it’s a living, breathing tribute to our rural roots and the sustainable practices that define Yolo Countryside.
This festival distinguishes itself by offering authentic connection—to the land, to local farmers, and to each other. It’s a chance to experience the region’s bounty with your hands in the dirt, and your heart full of appreciation. And the spirit continues the next day with Open Farm Day, when real working farms—some, normally closed to the public—invite you in to explore. It’s a rare opportunity to see daily farm life up close, meet the people who grow your food, and gain a deeper appreciation for what it means to live and farm in the Capay Valley.
Why Visit—and Stay—Around Hoes Down
If you’ve ever wanted to immerse yourself in the soul of Yolo Countryside, Hoes Down is the perfect occasion. Whether you're a family seeking hands-on fun, an outdoor enthusiast yearning for peaceful countryside escapes, or a traveler looking to explore farm-to-fork culture—this event delivers.
Why not extend your visit? Plan your trip around Hoes Down, and complement the experience by staying at one of our locally curated hotels in the Yolo Countryside. Start your morning sipping coffee with vineyard views, rest your head at a cozy inn after dancing under the stars, or begin a new day refreshed and inspired—ready to explore more of what this beautiful region offers.
Plan Your Visit — Get Grounded in Yolo Countryside
Grab your Hoes Down tickets for Saturday, October 4, 2025, via EcoFarm’s registration site—entry and camping options are available.
Plan Your Open Farm Day for Sunday, October 5, 2025 using this map. Participation in Open Farm Day does not require a Hoes Down ticket.
Book your accommodations early! Whether you prefer a charming B&B in Winters or boutique hotels in Woodland or Davis, we’ve got options that bring you closer to both the festival and the quiet beauty of our countryside.
Enjoy more local treasures—before or after Hoes Down, explore scenic biking routes, winery visits, farm tours, and artisan dining. The Capay Valley and surrounding areas are teeming with unforgettable experiences. View more things to do by exploring our website.
Hoes Down is more than an event—it’s a celebration of land, community, and the enduring joy of rural life. Come, dig in with us, and let Yolo Countryside host your next unforgettable agritourism escape.
