Laval won't let himself be boxed in, but…

It’s fall, but Laval isn’t letting the weather get it down! Take advantage of every sunny day to stop by and stock up on fresh vegetables. Then, on a rainy or gloomy day, you can get started on canning. What better way to enjoy Laval, even in winter (pardon the pun).

Choose Your Spot in Laval

Laval is close to everything: Montreal, Sainte-Thérèse, Saint-Jérôme, Alouette! In fact, Laval is even just a few minutes away from Laval, if you consider that there’s the urban Laval and rural Laval. But seriously, several farms and agritourism stands are easily accessible in Laval. So stop searching—this is where you need to go to stock up on fresh vegetables. And get a taste of nature.

Now that we’ve decided on the destination, all that’s left is to choose THE farm. Marineau Farm and Forget Farm, for squash and pumpkins, or Gibouleau Farm for apple picking.

No matter which spot you choose, you’re sure to have a great time! In addition to pick-your-own fruit, all three locations offer play areas for kids, games, products to enjoy on-site, and special activities that add a touch of magic.

Planning Your Day

Of course, you can just head over there and—voilà!—come away with the fruits and vegetables you need. Or, if you’re feeling lazy, you can buy them all nicely arranged at the stand, and that’s no problem at all. However, you can also “create” a truly full and colorful day (just like autumn) by planning a little itinerary.

On your way to the field, stop for a nice coffee or a treat to go. At La Bête à pain, at Mam’zelle Joséphine or at Ricardo (take advantage of the attached shop to buy any canning supplies you’re missing) and keep driving toward your destination.

Let’s skip straight to the post-harvest phase! Stop by Les Minettes to stock up on spices to finish off your recipes. Once that’s done, take advantage of the fact that you’re already in Laval to enjoy a local beer at Microbrasserie les Insulaires. If you don’t like beer, they also have an amazing cocktail menu. Finally, why not order a takeout meal (a pizza from Boston Pizza, a couscous, or a paella from La P’tite Boutique or anything else that makes your mouth water) and give the kitchen a break for the evening. Better yet: eat out! Just make sure you haven’t bought anything that will spoil if it isn’t kept refrigerated.

Between us, even if you have no interest in canning, visiting the farms in Laval is still a fun thing to do in the fall—whether with family, friends, or on your own.