As genetically modified seeds continue to make their mark on agriculture, the National Heirloom Festival stresses the importance of non-GMO food and farming. In its ninth year, the festival will welcome its more than 20,000 participants with a ten-foot high squash tower as well as more than 350 exhibitors, produce, artisanal foods, and plant-inspired art. In addition to the abundance of fruit and vegetables, there will also be a Dahlia Show and more than 100 renowned garden and food speakers offering back-to-back talks. The lineup of lecturers includes Vandana Shiva, Jeffrey Smith, Carlo Petrini, Ronnie Cummins, Dave Murphy, Percy Schmeiser, Joseph Mercola, and Rachel Parent. There’ll also be special science activities, classes, tastings, and games for kids in the School Garden Network Kids’ Pavilion. The festival will be held September 10–12, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa. Admission is $15 for one day or $30 for a three-day pass. Children ages 17 and younger get in free. For more information, see  theheirloomexpo.com.