Celebrate Central Missouri’s favorite fruit with family fun, education, and fresh flavor!
COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Jefferson Farm Extension and Education Center and the Central Missouri Research, Extension, and Education Center (REEC) are excited to announce the return of the beloved Tomato Festival, taking place on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Jefferson Farm, located at 4800 East New Haven Road in Columbia.
This free, family-friendly event celebrates one of Missouri’s favorite summer crops with a flavorful mix of tasting tables, educational exhibits, local food vendors and hands-on activities for all ages. Guests will enjoy sampling dozens of tomato varieties grown on-site, including heirlooms and unique cultivars grown through University of Missouri research.
“We’re thrilled to invite the community back to Jefferson Farm to celebrate agriculture, healthy eating, and local food systems,” said Charles Holland, Director at Jefferson Farm and Garden.
“The Tomato Festival is a fun and engaging way to connect people of all ages to the science, the flavor, and the cultural importance of tomatoes and Missouri agriculture.”
Highlights of the 2025 Tomato Festival include:
- Tomato tastings featuring 194 university-grown varieties
- Cooking demos by local chefs and MU Extension nutrition experts
- Youth activities including planting, scavenger hunts, and tomato-themed crafts
- Booths by community partners and MU agricultural organizations
- Gardening and research exhibits from MU faculty and Heart of Missouri Master Gardeners.
Parking and admission are free.
Bring the whole family, a water bottle, and your curiosity!
For more information and updates, follow MU Jefferson Farm on Facebook or visit out website.
Contact Charles Holland, hollandca@missouri.edu, (573) 445-9792
