No, it’s not a tribute to the infamous B-movie—though if you suddenly see a lot more enthusiasm for that vibrant red fruit (often mistaken for a vegetable) in the Valley, it’s probably because the 8th Annual Red Fire Farm Tomato Festival, an old-fashioned country fair in the best tradition, is coming around again. Live bluegrass and folk music acts provide the soundtrack to the lycopene-rich event, and festival-goers can sample as many as 75 varieties of organically grown tomatoes, cultivated by local farmers. The festival also features food authors, nutritionists and renowned professional cooks, while petting zoos, seeding, arts and crafts and games provide entertainment for the children. The annual Tomato Trot, which starts at 10:30 a.m., takes runners and walkers through the fields, gardens and orchards of Granby, and promises baskets of local produce for prizes. There is also a dance from 7:30-10:30 p.m.
Aug. 23 (rain date: Aug. 24)
10:30 a.m., Red Fire Farm
7 Carver St., Granby (413) 467-SOIL
free/kids, $5/general
Tomato Trot: $15/entry fee, $18/day of race
