GUELPH, ON [June 17, 2026] – If Dad’s ideal Father’s Day includes a backyard barbecue, a cold drink and great food shared with family and friends, Ontario farmers have almost everything needed to make it happen.

From juicy strawberries or fresh asparagus to locally raised meat and fish, June is one of the most exciting times of year for Ontario-grown food. As Father’s Day approaches, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture’s Home Grown campaign is encouraging Ontarians to celebrate with ingredients grown and raised close to home.

“Father’s Day falls at a perfect time of year,” says Ethan Wallace, farmer and Vice President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. “Whether you’re planning a barbecue, a family dinner or a picnic, there are plenty of opportunities to put local food at the centre of the celebration as we honour the fathers and father figures in our lives.”

By mid-June, Ontario grocery stores, farmers’ markets and farm stands are beginning to fill with seasonal favourites including strawberries, asparagus, rhubarb, spinach, lettuce, radishes, green onions and greenhouse-grown tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. Local meats, poultry and fish can round out the menu, while Ontario-made wines, craft beers, ciders and spirits offer plenty of options for raising a glass to Dad.

“One of the great things about eating local in Ontario is the variety,” says Wallace. “We grow, raise and produce more than 200 different food, fuel, fibre and flower products. Father’s Day is a great opportunity to discover just how much is available right here in our own province.”

For barbecue enthusiasts, Ontario-raised burgers, steaks, chops, sausages and chicken pair perfectly with fresh seasonal vegetables. Ontario trout, pickerel and perch can also make a memorable addition to the grill.

And no Father’s Day meal would be complete without dessert. Fresh Ontario strawberries are beginning to arrive just in time for the occasion. Whether served on shortcake, paired with ice cream or enjoyed straight from the basket, they are among the most anticipated signs of summer – and often paired with rhubarb as the sweetness of strawberries perfectly balances rhubarb’s tart flavour.

Fast facts about strawberries and rhubarb:

• Strawberries are one of Ontario’s most popular seasonal fruits, with many farms offering pick-your-own experiences throughout June and July.
• The average strawberry contains about 200 seeds on its surface, making it one of the few fruits that carries its seeds on the outside.
• Rhubarb is technically a vegetable, even though it is most often used in desserts.
• Rhubarb has been cultivated for thousands of years and was originally grown for medicinal purposes long before it became a pie ingredient.

Beyond celebrating Father’s Day, choosing Ontario-grown food supports local farm families, rural communities and businesses throughout the province.

“Buying local helps keep food dollars circulating in Ontario and supports the farmers who work hard every day to produce safe, high-quality food,” says Wallace. “It’s a simple choice that makes a real difference.”

The OFA’s Home Grown campaign raises awareness of why it’s important to preserve Ontario farmland to produce local food, fuel, flowers and fibre. Learn more and sign up for regular updates on products grown and raised in Ontario at homegrownofa.ca.

About the Ontario Federation of Agriculture

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) represents 38,000 farm families across the province and serves as the leading advocate and strongest voice of Ontario’s farmers. As a dynamic farmer-led organization, the OFA represents and champions the interests of Ontario farmers through advocacy and government relations, research and farm policy recommendations, media and public relations, community representation, and more.

Join the conversation on X @OntarioFarms, Instagram @ontariofarms and Facebook /ontariofarms.

About Home Grown

A public awareness initiative of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Home Grown’s objective is to raise awareness about the importance of protecting and preserving Ontario farmland. Learn more about the key role of Ontario farms as a source of food, fuel, fibre and flowers and get regular updates on products grown and raised in Ontario by joining Home Grown Ontario.

Stay connected with Home Grown and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @homegrownofa.

For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Tyler Brooks
Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Ontario Federation of Agriculture
519-821-8883 or [email protected]