Harvest to Holiday: Appetizers, Small Bites & Sips with Olive & Orchard

Wednesday, September 9, 2026

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

$60 per person

Kick off the harvest season with the first installment of Harvest to Holiday, a three-part seasonal tasting series led by Olive & Orchard. Designed for home cooks and food lovers alike, this hands-on culinary experience explores the incredible flavors of premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars while inspiring simple, elegant recipes perfect for entertaining.

This first session, Appetizers, Small Bites & Sips, celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors with a menu of seasonal appetizers and shareable bites, thoughtfully paired with a few delicious sips. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply looking to elevate everyday cooking, you'll discover how exceptional ingredients can transform even the simplest dishes.

What You'll Do

Throughout the evening, you'll sample a variety of premium extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars while learning how to pair them with seasonal ingredients to create memorable appetizers and small plates.

As you taste and explore, the Olive & Orchard team will share serving ideas, entertaining tips, and simple recipes that can easily be recreated at home. You'll leave inspired with new flavor combinations and practical techniques for effortless entertaining.

You'll Learn

• How to taste and evaluate premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars

• Flavor pairing techniques for appetizers and small bites

• Simple ways to elevate everyday ingredients

• Creative ideas for entertaining with seasonal flavors

• Tips for incorporating specialty oils and vinegars into your home cooking

What's Included

• Guided tasting of premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars

• Seasonal appetizer and small bite samples

• Beverage pairings

• Hands-on culinary instruction and demonstrations

• Recipes and inspiration to recreate the experience at home

About Your Instructor

Olive & Orchard believes that life is too short not to eat delicious food. Through thoughtfully curated tastings and approachable culinary education, they help home cooks discover how premium ingredients can turn everyday meals into memorable experiences.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Cost: $60 per person

Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Takeaway: New entertaining ideas, delicious recipes, practical tasting skills, and a deeper appreciation for premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars.

Location: Prairie Fruits Farm Classroom

4410 N Lincoln Ave, Champaign, IL

Parking: General parking is available in the gravel lot. ADA parking is located south of the farmhouse. The classroom is located in the white building with black trim west of the gardens. Please check in at the farm store upon arrival.

Interested in more? This workshop is the first in a three-part Harvest to Holiday series. Join us again in October for Sides & Salads and in November for Mains & Desserts, or attend any session individually.

By attending this event, you consent to your image being used in Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery marketing materials, social media, and publications. If you prefer not to be photographed, please notify the photographer upon arrival.