On Sunday, September 13, 2026, a group of eleven farms across the Montreal region opened their doors to the public for the first time. The initiative includes an urban farm situated on the rooftop of the Palais des congrès, where visitors can observe how food is cultivated in a city setting and learn why buying locally matters.

The rooftop farm, perched atop the convention centre, showcases a compact growing system that produces vegetables and herbs using sustainable methods. Its placement in the heart of downtown allows city dwellers to see a working farm without leaving the urban core. Guided tours explain the planting cycles, soil management, and harvesting techniques employed by the growers.

The other ten farms participating in the open‑house event are spread throughout the greater Montreal area. Together, they form a network of producers aiming to demystify agricultural processes for consumers. Each site offers demonstrations, informational displays, and opportunities for shoppers to purchase fresh produce directly from the growers.

The coordinated opening comes as Canada and the United States remain locked in a trade dispute that has disrupted agricultural markets. Quebec farmers say the conflict threatens export channels and pricing, prompting them to emphasize local consumption as a way to sustain their operations. By inviting the public onto their farms, producers hope to build stronger connections between growers and buyers, encouraging shoppers to choose regional products over imported alternatives.

Organizers expect the public events to generate increased awareness of the benefits of locally sourced food and to support the resilience of Quebec’s agricultural sector during the ongoing trade tensions. The farms plan to keep their doors open for future visits, aiming to turn the initial weekend into a lasting outreach effort.

The effort reflects a broader strategy among Quebec’s agricultural community to adapt to market challenges by fostering a direct relationship with consumers and highlighting the value of food grown close to home.