On Saturday, August 29, more than 600 people gathered at Taa-‘at-dvn Chee-ne’ Tetlh-tvm’ (Crescent City Food Forest) for the 2026 Harvest Festival. Hosted by the Del Norte & Tribal Lands Community Food Council in partnership with College of the Redwoods – Del Norte, the free, family-friendly event brought our community together to celebrate local food, the harvest, and the people who help make our local food system stronger.

Throughout the afternoon, the Food Forest was filled with music, food, activities, and community connection. Tsunami Swing and The WoodPile provided live music, while local food and drink vendors offered food including BBQ and baked goods. Artisan vendors also joined the celebration, giving attendees the opportunity to shop from local makers and businesses.

There were plenty of ways to get involved throughout the day. Community members explored the Del Norte County Library’s Seed Library, learned about food preservation with UC Cooperative Extension–Del Norte County, and asked questions with UC Master Gardeners of Del Norte County. Gateway Education made cider on site with their apple press, while the Family Resource Center Mobile Market provided an opportunity for community members to exchange their garden bounty at the Harvest Swap.

Of course, the Corn-Eating Contest was one of the afternoon's highlights. Competitors took on the challenge in several age categories, bringing plenty of enthusiasm and friendly competition to the Food Forest.

The Beer & Wine Garden provided another way for adults to enjoy the afternoon while supporting the Community Food Council. We are grateful to Port O’Pints Brewing Co., SeaQuake Brewing, and High Note Winery for donating beer and wine for the event.

An event of this size would not be possible without the many people who contributed their time, resources, and support. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, community partners, vendors, donors, and everyone who helped plan, set up, participate in, and clean up after the festival.

The Harvest Festival is a reflection of what we value at the Del Norte & Tribal Lands Community Food Council: strengthening connections, supporting local food and producers, sharing knowledge and skills, and creating opportunities for our community to come together.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Food Forest to celebrate the harvest. While the festival may be over, the Food Forest is open every day from sunrise to sunset for the community to enjoy. Located next to College of the Redwoods–Del Norte, the space remains a place to connect with food, nature, and community year-round.

Visit the Food Forest page for more information.