9.29.2024 | Odd Duck Harvest Jamboree
Farm Happy | Jackson, WI
Wisconsin's farming tradition runs deep, that's no secret. But in the past decade or two we've seen a resurgence of the small family farm, hobby farm, and urban farms. That has resulted in a plethora of options of weekly farmer's markets, CSA options, and of course farm-to-table (even if you dislike the term) in the area. You'll find restaurants across the city recognize their suppliers on the menu - La Merenda, Braise, Goodkind, and Odd Duck to name a few.
The crew at Odd Duck decided to reverse that trend Sunday and took the table, and kitchen, to the farm. In collaboration with one of their largest supporters, Farm Happy, hosted their first Harvest Jamboree. Whereas some farm dinners hosted are still plated, multi-course meals, the Jamboree was a true family affair - buffet style appetizers and dinner, yard games, DJ, and of course the opportunity to feed chickens and THE ducks.
Farmers John and Jennifer started with just a raised bed about a decade ago. Since then they've expanded to planting a full acre over three fields and five greenhouses, free range chickens and ducks, You can find them weekly at the West Bend farmer's market, which is definitely worth the trip, or subscribe to their 18-week vegetable subscription with pickups throughout the Milwaukee suburbs.
The incredible crew at Odd Duck showcased Farm Happy's produce in their typical fashion. An appetizer spread of fresh veggies, fruits, local cheese and handmade sausages and my favorite duck liver mousse held a line for well over an hour. Dinner featured salads galore, my favorite being the apricot couscous, mushroom and lamb shawarma, grilled chicken, housemade sausages and even hot dogs for the kids. If you're like me when you go to Odd Duck and want to order the full menu it was perfect to be able to sample a bit of everything.
You couldn't have asked for a nicer September day on a farm. Between tours, music, fun and games and the eventual "find the duck" I hope it's an event for years to come. Many thanks to all those that busted their butt working a long day to make everything perfect, especially Melissa and Ross of Odd Duck and John and Jennifer of Farm Happy!
