Experience Scenic Western Loudoun at the Fall Farm Tour October 18-19
The public is invited to enjoy the people, places and products of Loudoun’s thriving agricultural community during the 2014 Loudoun Fall Farm Tour. The tour runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, October 18 and 19. A map and description of 42 participating farms and other venues is included in the Loudoun Fall Farm Tour brochure, available now at county libraries and community centers, and online at: www.LoudounFarms.org/FarmTour.
“I can say from personal experience that not only is the farm tour a terrific opportunity to support our rural businesses, but it’s a great experience to bring your friends and family and show them what Loudoun has to offer,” said Loudoun Economic Development Director Buddy Rizer.
Each venue will have special activities for the weekend, including educational exhibits, live music, hands-on visits with farm animals, and local products for purchase, including farm-fresh meats, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Four venues have been added to this year’s tour:
• BLE-COR Farm: a family-owned Black Angus cattle farm in operation over 30 years;
• Watermark Woods: a native plant, pesticide-free nursery with exhibits on composting and natural alternatives to pesticides;
• Mount Defiance Cidery and Distillery: a new commercial cidery in Middleburg, offering hard cider samples and tours of their facility;
• Winery 32: a 32-acre farm winery featuring live music, vineyard tours and information on viticulture.
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 and wineries 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 countryside. More than 8,000 visitors are expected to take part in this free event.