Loudoun’s Fall Farm Tour October 17-18, 2015

Enjoy the beauty and bounty of Loudoun’s farms during the 2015 Loudoun Fall Farm Tour. The tour runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, October 17 and 18. A map and descriptions of the 50 participating farms and other venues is included in the Loudoun Fall Farm Tour brochure, available now at county libraries, community centers, and online at: www.LoudounFarms.org/FarmTour.

“The Loudoun countryside is one of the top assets of our county, and Fall is one of the best seasons to visit it,” says Loudoun Economic Development Director Buddy Rizer. “This is a spectacular time of year to take the family and have unique, hands-on experiences at rural businesses.”

Venues will have special activities for the weekend, including educational exhibits, live music, farm animals and local foods and beverages. Several new venues have been added to this year’s tour, including:

– Ayrshire Farm: An 800-acre, certified-organic, heritage-breed livestock farm, offering wagon rides and beekeeping presentations.

– Bridle Paths at Stone Horse Farm: an organization providing equine therapies, and showcasing equine communication and horse body-language demonstrations.

– CEA Farms: a new agricultural enterprise in development, featuring their high-density, environmentally friendly growing system.

– Hope Farm: this historic former dairy farm is now dedicated to flowers, and will offer flower-arranging demonstrations made with local plants.

Loudoun County’s Agricultural Development Officer Kellie Hinkle adds, “The Fall Farm Tour showcases the diversity of Loudoun County agriculture and the vibrancy of the overall rural economy. Having new farms, wineries and breweries participate each year is proof that Loudoun agriculture is thriving.”

Fifteen of the participating locations are pet-friendly, and most are found along scenic drives in western Loudoun’s rolling countryside. More than 8,000 visitors are expected to take part in this free event.