Schoolchildren exchanged the classroom for a farming showground near Exeter as they were taken on a food journey from field to fork.
Around 1,400 youngsters from primary and special schools in the city and across the county attended the Farm Wise Devon at Westpoint Arena.
At the event, organised by Devon County Council, the children learned where food comes from and how it is produced from raw materials through to manufactured products.
Lord Mayor of Exeter Percy Prowse, who attended the event, said: "Primary school children were recently asked the question: Where does bacon come from? The answer given was Tesco. That's why it's important to stage events like these."
Farmers and exhibitors passed on their knowledge and expertise about a wide variety of produce including dairy, poultry, pigs, fruit and vegetables.
Councillor Jeremy Yabsley, of DCC's farms estate committee, said: "This is all about allowing the children to get a real touch, feel and smell of farming and farm production in a safe and fun environment."
Councillor James McInnes, DCC cabinet member for children schools and skills, added: "It's vitally important that children learn all about food and the environment that it comes from to educate them and enhance their enthusiasm for our local produce."
During the practical demonstrations the youngsters were shown how to milk a cow, how the wool of a sheep is removed, as well as how to make jam and bake bread.
Marguerite Tait, a teacher at Drake's Primary School in Budleigh Salterton, said: "The whole school is here today, and everyone is having a great time."
James Bennington, a teacher at Marpool Primary School in Exmouth, said: "We've just made strawberry jam and everyone really enjoyed it. Once they are back at school, the children will write a report about what they've learned as part of our healthy living project."
The youngsters were also shown about how farming is expanding and diversifying into other industries including tourism and events.
Johnny Ball, of the National Farmers' Union, said: "We are world leaders in animal husbandry, and these children are our next generation of consumers. It's imperative that we teach them where food comes from and how it's produced. A lot of them will come away with more knowledge than mum and dad have."
