From Field to Fork is the theme of this year's Chilliwack Exhibition.

Ever wonder what makes B.C. strawberries tastier than others? Or what makes Chilliwack corn so scrumdiliumptious? Or how exactly the spinach on your plate became organic spinach?

Those are just a few of the things you could learn about at this year's exhibition.

With all the hype on global warming, the 100-mile diet and the importance of sustainable food, organizers of the exhibition wanted to show the community what their own backyard has to offer, and how they offer it.

"Many of us are no longer aware of the origins of the food we eat," said organizer Wendi Prinse. "We wanted to help people understand where their food comes from; how it gets from the farmer to their plate."

Chilliwack is home to 828 farms producing such things as dairy, poultry, vegetables, fruit and berries, floriculture and nurseries.

"Sixty five per cent of the economic base in Chilliwack is agriculture," said Prinse. "The exhibition is an opportunity for the community to learn about our agriculture, and to be up close and personal with our cows, bunnies, oxen, chickens and goats. You don't have to drive to Vancouver for the PNE, we've got it all right here, locally."

Its got 4-H shows, open livestock shows, home and garden displays, barrel racing, antique tractor pulls, sheep shearing, a black smith shop, a saw mill, a threshing bee, logging shows, the rodeo and so much more.

New this year, there will also be garage band concerts in the evenings, and a country kids adventure zone providing free or low-cost entertainment and activities for children.

Chef Dez – renowned entertainer and chef – will also be on hand doing presentations with Chilliwack corn.

The 137th annual Chilliwack Exhibition is on Aug. 7, 8, and 9 at Heritage Park.

Advance passes are available until Aug. 6 at The Progress or Heritage Park for $8 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Passes at the door are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors. Family passes are also available for $30, which includes admission for two adults and three or more children

For more information, visit the website www.chilliwackexhibition.com.

krobinson@theprogress.com