It seems like we can't open our inboxes without seeing a press release about another food-related "holiday" — National Pumpkin Day, let's say, or Waffle Week. Not exactly meaty stuff. Food Day is different. Founded last year by the nonprofit Center for Science in the Public Interest, it's a nationwide celebration of sustainable, healthy, and affordable grub — and a reminder of how far we have to go to make it a reality for all.
"The frustrating thing is that every day should be Food Day, just like every day should be Earth Day," says chef Michael Leviton of Lumière and Area Four, who also happens to be the board chair of Chefs Collaborative, a national network of chefs committed to using local foods and fostering a sustainable food supply. "It's kind of a no-brainer, and it's unfortunate that we need a day for it at all, but we have to do anything we can to raise awareness about sustainable consumption."
Last year, 2300 events went down all over the country, tackling topics like health and nutrition, hunger, agricultural policy, animal welfare, and farm-worker justice. Organizers hope to top that with Food Day's second installment on October 24.
But just like you don't need to rescue a polar bear to honor Earth Day (although it'd be nice if you did), you can start celebrating Food Day by mindfully doing what you do every day — chowing down — whether it's at your kitchen table or at one of the 50-plus events happening around town. Here are a few options for noshing amid the day's seminars and film screenings.
Allandale Farm » From noon to 3 pm, folks from Boston's only working farm will hit Brookline Town Hall Plaza to give cider samples, sell apples and cider, and drop some Food Day knowledge. :: 333 Washington St, Brookline
Lumière » Dig into Every Day Is Food Day, a three-course locavore dinner, at 7 pm for $45 (plus $15 with Pretty Things beer pairings). :: 1293 Washington St, West Newton :: 617.244.9199
Mei Mei Street Kitchen and Momogoose » The two food-truck faves are offering all-local, sustainable menus, including vegan fare; check meimeiboston.com and momogoose.com for hours and locations.
FOR THE FULL LIST OF EVENTS VISIT FOODDAY.ORG/ALL_EVENTS.
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