Yolo County didn’t set out to become a food destination. Rather, it evolved naturally. With rich soil and ideal growing conditions, it is an agricultural powerhouse where food has always been the focal point, long before farm-to-table became a buzzword.
For centuries, the region was inhabited by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, who understood the abundance of resources the land provided. They practiced land stewardship techniques, such as controlled burning, tending native plants, and shaping the landscape to encourage edible species.
Today, they continue sustainable practices on their lands in the Capay Valley, where they grow olive and nut trees, wine grapes, and other agricultural products. These goods are available at Séka Hills in Brooks, where visitors can tour their olive oil mill, taste estate wines, and grab a bite to eat from their on-site deli.
Capay Valley Agriculture
Much of Yolo County’s agricultural bounty originates in the fertile Capay Valley. By the mid-1800s, settlers had established numerous farms, orchards, and ranches here. From fruits and vegetables to nuts and grains, the valley’s agricultural legacy remains strong today.
Growing food is only part of the story. Farmers in Yolo County are passionate about sharing their harvest. In addition to supplying supermarkets and restaurants across the state (and beyond), many farms offer Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. These programs allow you to pick up boxes of seasonal produce or, in some cases, have them delivered right to your door. Local farms offering CSAs include the following:
- Farm Fresh to You
- Full Belly Farm
- Good Humus Produce
- River Dog Farm
- Terra Firma Farm
Farm Visits in Yolo County
You can also go straight to the source to see everything the valley has to offer by visiting one of the many family-run farms in the region. Full Belly Farm has been certified organic since 1985, welcoming guests to their seasonal farm dinners, monthly pizza nights, and other special events throughout the year.
Polestar Farm is another family-run farm, specializing in Blenheim apricots and other fruits. They also host seasonal farm dinners showcasing the bounty of the surrounding land. Capay Organic was started in 1976 and grows a wide variety of fruits and veggies; they also host special events, including the Capay tomato farm party each July.
But Yolo County’s agricultural heritage isn’t limited to the Capay Valley. Farmers have been working the land further south for generations. Near Winters, Martin Ranch was founded in the mid-1800s and has produced everything from apricots to tomatoes, walnuts to prunes (which are still produced today). One place to consider visiting is Park Winters, a historic farm and inn that offers weekend brunch in an open-air pavilion overlooking the grounds. They also have a small shop where you can pick up vinegar, local honey, and house-made loose-leaf tea.
Food-Centric Events in Yolo County
Agriculture has been a part of the Yolo County way of life for centuries. So, it comes as no surprise that many community events are linked to farming. You can pick up locally grown produce and farm goods at the Winters Farmers’ Market, held each Sunday April through October. The Davis Farmers’ Market is one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the state, welcoming growers (many of them organic) every Saturday morning. Also in Davis, the annual Village Feast, held each October, is a celebration of the local bounty. Other food-centric events in Yolo County include the Rustic Ramble in April, Hoes Down Harvest Festival in October, the Almond Festival in February, and Yolo Fest in March.
Sip Yolo County Wines
No mention of Yolo County is complete without including its wine-growing heritage. From the Capay Valley and Winters to the Clarksburg region along the Sacramento River, the Mediterranean-like climate is ideal for wine grapes. Wine production dates to the 1800s, and today, demand for Yolo County wine continues to grow. Clarksburg remains a popular destination for visitors, with several notable wineries dotted along the riverside, as well as the Old Sugar Mill, a restored sugar beet factory that now houses 14 tasting rooms under one roof. Other great wine regions include the Capay Valley and Winters.
Book Your Getaway to Yolo County Today
Yolo County’s agricultural roots laid the groundwork for a thriving farm-to-table culture today, making it the ideal spot for a food-focused getaway. Whether visiting a local farm, sampling fresh produce, or sipping local wine, Yolo County is a true food destination. Visit the many lodging options in Yolo County and book your escape today.
