Guilford County Parks, as it does each year, is presenting “The Big Pick” at the Guilford County Farm to benefit local food banks.

 Parks Department officials are inviting volunteers to come out and join “The Big Pick” – the annual grape-harvesting event at what used to be the Guilford County Prison Farm, but is now just the county farm.

Set your GPS to 7315 Howerton Road in Gibsonville.

Jail inmates used to pick the grapes – and make “Jailhouse Jam” out of it – however, since it’s no longer a prison farm, now each year volunteers come out and pick the grapes for a good cause.

This year’s big grape-picking event will take place on two Saturdays – September 28 and October 5 – from 9 a.m. to noon, offering a chance for people of all ages to come out and support local food banks and shelters.

Last year, more than 150 volunteers came out to help and, collectively, they harvested more than 2,000 pounds of muscadine grapes.

This year, Guilford County Parks staff hope to collect even more to feed the hungry.

“This annual event is a highlight for the community, where people come together to enjoy a day of service. Volunteers will have the unique experience of picking grapes directly from the farm’s vineyards. All harvested grapes are then donated to local food banks, shelters, and community kitchens, helping to provide fresh produce to those who need it most,” stated John Gladstone, Park Supervisor for Guilford County.

Newcomers are welcome: “No prior experience is needed to participate,” the county’s invite notes.

 Volunteers should dress comfortably for outdoor activities and wear closed-toe shoes. Sunscreen and hats are also recommended in order to stay safe and comfortable while working outdoors.

You can register for “The Big Pick,” at https://bit.ly/BigPickFarm.

After October 5, the public will have the opportunity to pick grapes from the vineyard for personal use. You can follow Guilford County Parks on social media @guilfordcountyparks for the latest updates and more information.

Set your GPS to 7315 Howerton Road in Gibsonville.

Jail inmates used to pick the grapes – and make “Jailhouse Jam” out of it – however, since it’s no longer a prison farm, now each year volunteers come out and pick the grapes for a good cause.

This year’s big grape-picking event will take place on two Saturdays – September 28 and October 5 – from 9 a.m. to noon, offering a chance for people of all ages to come out and support local food banks and shelters.

Last year, more than 150 volunteers came out to help and, collectively, they harvested more than 2,000 pounds of muscadine grapes.

This year, Guilford County Parks staff hope to collect even more to feed the hungry.

“This annual event is a highlight for the community, where people come together to enjoy a day of service. Volunteers will have the unique experience of picking grapes directly from the farm’s vineyards. All harvested grapes are then donated to local food banks, shelters, and community kitchens, helping to provide fresh produce to those who need it most,” stated John Gladstone, Park Supervisor for Guilford County.

Newcomers are welcome: “No prior experience is needed to participate,” the county’s invite notes.

 Volunteers should dress comfortably for outdoor activities and wear closed-toe shoes. Sunscreen and hats are also recommended in order to stay safe and comfortable while working outdoors.

You can register for “The Big Pick,” at https://bit.ly/BigPickFarm.

After October 5, the public will have the opportunity to pick grapes from the vineyard for personal use. You can follow Guilford County Parks on social media @guilfordcountyparks for the latest updates and more information.

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