Rappahannock Co, VA — Sheep-guarding llamas, heritage breed chickens, honey bees, heirloom fruits and vegetables, and native plants all take center stage at the 2011 Rappahannock County Farm Tour, September 24 – 25, 20ll.  Rappahannock County, Virginia is located just 65 miles west of Washington, DC in some of the most scenic countryside of Virginia.

This popular, self-guided, family-focused farm tour emphasizes sustainable practices and incorporates farms, wineries, orchards, plant nurseries and farm schools into its weekend menu of events.   Eighteen venues will offer tours and presentations, some selling local, fresh food products. Learn about sustainable “mob grazing” and pick up helpful tips that can be applied to urban gardening situations.  Rappahannock County students will share their unique experiences combining farming and academics.

Bigger than ever, the popular “All Things Rappahannock Market” will feature 25 vendors and organizations, selling local products and offering eco-friendly presentations at The Link Community Center in Sperryville, which also serves as Farm Tour headquarters.   Register for the Farm Tour, pick up printed tour programs, buy local products, and learn about nature stewardship at The Link.   You can also register to win an overnight getaway in Rappahannock County, a heritage turkey for Thanksgiving dinner and more!

Admission is a $5 donation per person, ages 16 and older.  Purchase tickets for the Rappahannock County Farm Tour multiple ways:  at Farm Tour Headquarters at The Link Community Center in Sperryville, the historic Sperryville Schoolhouse, 12018 Lee Highway (Route 211), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on both Saturday and Sunday; online at http://FarmTour.VisitRappahannockVA.com; or at three venues on the Farm Tour, which include Narmada Winery (Route 211 at the eastern end of the county); Mountain Laurel Montessori Farm School (Route 522 in Flint Hill), and Belle Meade Farm, (Route 231, south of Sperryville).

Local inns, cottages and B&Bs will offer special packages for the weekend.  For more information, visit http://FarmTour.VisitRappahannockVA.com or call the Rappahannock County Visitors Center at 540-675-3153.