Livin’ La Vida Fresca

As the week finally begins to wind down, I’m eagerly gearing up for my first-time trip to Austin, Texas. While the world-class breweries, thriving music scene and delicious Tex-Mex are reason enough to visit the state’s capital, I’ll be there to check out the third annual Viva Fresh Produce Expo, taking place April 20-22 at the Austin Convention Center.

Hosted by the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), Viva Fresh will highlight the “Gateway to the Americas,” showcasing produce that is grown in the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico. The expo is set to focus heavily on networking and education, with features like: a virtual field tour of Texas- and Mexico-based farms and facilities; a supermarket dietician seminar; the latest merchandising trends; and discussions on issues and opportunities with trade between Mexico and the U.S.

Educational sessions will be hosted by Michel Nischan, founder and CEO, Wholesome Wave Chef; Whit Grebitus vice president of sales, Vantage Point Media; among others. And this year’s keynote speakers are Dr. David Katz, known for his work with preventative medicine, and his wife, Catherine Katz. The power could co-authored the book, The Flavor-Full Diet, and will be sharing their personal and professional experience with nutrition.

But of course, what’s a weekend in Austin without a stop on Dirty 6^th Street? Viva Fresh will host its welcome reception at Maggie Mae’s, a legendary venue with the largest rooftop view on 6^th Street, featuring live music from the Eric Tessmer Band.

I’m excited to check out what’s fresh at the expo and explore the “Live Music Capital of the World.” See you in Austin!