In the Fall of 2011, Alexis, Marisa, Georgia and I started the Philly Food Swap. There was a gap in the market, so they took off right away. Every swap has been packed with talented local cooks and bakers. We’ve had so much fun. There are people that I’m friends with now because of the Swap and it always inspires me to know (and taste) that there are so many talented food folks around Philly. Last night was our smallest swap ever (a thunderstorm was predicted but only materialized after the swap’s end), but it had many, many charms. The location at the beautiful Wyck Historic Home, Farm and Garden was a salve for my green-starved soul. The smaller crowd actually meant that I had the time to have lengthy conversations with some swappers, something that is usually a challenge in the hubbub of signing up and bargaining.
I’ve truly enjoyed the Philly Food Swaps over the years. They are infused with energy and remain entirely about local food and community. There are so many wonderful organizations in the city who’ve supported us and and many wonderful people who’ve spent their time and energy making the amazing, shareable food that makes these events. I won’t say a whole lot more, I’ll just share quite a few photos from the event! (There are lots, so most are after the jump and forgive slow loading times, please).
Becky says
It was seeing Marisa post about your swaps that inspired a friend & myself to start our own up here. While it’s still a very small group, I have certainly met new friends and tried some fabulous new foods. Great shots!
Amanda says
That’s so great, Becky! Swapping is definitely a great way to foster community!
Sara says
This looks like such a blast@ I really wish we had more of these in Madison–seems like we should have them here, right?
Amanda says
Definitely! I encourage you to start one, Sara! Find a like-minded friend and a donated venue and tell everyone you know (also, email the local press!). Madison is ripe for a swap and the Philly version has definitely helped to bolster the DIY food community here!
Zubayda says
Amanda,
I looked into joining a food swap here in the Twin Cities and was disappointed to find out there was one in Minneapolis that was disbanded in 2012. After doing some digging, I discovered they chose to disband because of some demands that were made by the Dept of Health and Dept of Agriculture(something to do with canned items). I would like to start my own food swap. Is this a difficult process? Where should I begin?
Thanks,
Zubayda
Amanda says
Hi Zubaya,
Starting a food swap here was quite easy, and maintaining it has also been fun and easy! If there is concern from the Department of Health, I would definitely make sure that that’s straightened out before you put any effort into finding a suitable venue. I’m not sure how the laws vary by state, but no money changes hands at our swap, ever. We find venues willing to donate space and ask participants to bring goods for swapping and a potluck item if the desire! I would also recommend finding a friend to help. I asked my friend Alexis to help me start our swap, and as it turned out, she was friends with Marisa and Georgia who also wanted to start a swap. Having four has made it way easier. We each have simple tasks to manage so each swap after the first has been very straightforward. If you want specifics once you find out if it’s definitely possible to do a swap in Minneapolis, please contact me by email (I’m not the fastest at responding, but I’ll do my best).