Loudoun Fall Farm Tour October 19-20
Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of working Loudoun County farms during the 2013 Fall Farm Tour, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, October 19-20. Families can tour an orchid greenhouse, gather fresh eggs or pick pumpkins within view of the scenic Blue Ridge, Short Hill and Sugarloaf Mountains. With 42 farms and wineries, along with six other venues/events, there will be lots of activities to enjoy.
New to the Fall Farm Tour is Checkmate Farm, located in Bluemont, VA. Joe and Kathy Donovan purchased the 100 year-old property in 2002 and currently raise Karakul sheep and a variety of other animals on the farm. During the tour weekend, guests can interact with live animals, tour the natural fiber shop, or enjoy grilled lamb sausages.
Also new to the tour this year is Maggie Malick Wine Caves located in Purcellville, VA. The 215-acre estate features a unique man-made, energy-efficient wine production facility and tasting room. With 20 acres of grapes in production, the newly opened winery offers a variety of wines, including chardonnay, petit manseng, merlot, cabernet franc and garnacha tinto. Enjoy the beautiful views from the property and participate in educational lectures during the tour.
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 well and thriving.”
Brochures for the Fall Farm Tour, including a map and directions to all participating farms, will be available locally at Loudoun County libraries, community centers, and Visit Loudoun in Leesburg. A downloadable copy of the brochure is also available at www.loudounfarms.org.