Field days are usually large gatherings where a general invitation has been sent out to the public. They are often held on research stations or trial sites, usually involve guest speakers and may be opened by political figures. Well planned and conducted field days are effective forms of education. Land holders can see and discuss practices in an informal atmosphere and operate equipment or handle the plants and animals under discussion. Farm walks, held on properties, are often organised by a landcare group or local producer organisation.
Attendance is restricted, and participants generally know each other well before the day.
Farm walks differ from large field days in their depth of personal interaction. Because farm walks involve small groups of landholders, each person is able to ask questions and discuss topics in relation to their own property. All participants can be involved in prioritising activities and topics for discussion. The existing knowledge and practices of participants can be identified and shared within the group and individuals' specific needs can be more easily catered for than in a large field day event. All participants can also be actively involved in hands-on learning experiences relevant to the topic.