The Montgomery County Farm Tour and Harvest Sale returns this weekend, with 26 farms, orchards, breweries and wineries open to visitors across the county’s Agricultural Reserve.
The self-guided tour runs Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26. Because visitors drive themselves, they can stop at one farm, several, or all 26, depending on their schedule.
Three farms are joining the tour for the first time this year, including Brookeville Beer Farm, East Oaks Farm and Song Dog Farm Distillery, which the county describes as its newest craft beverage distillery.
What to expect
Visitors can taste craft beverages at eight participating farms and browse floral displays at five. Seven farm markets will sell local produce, farm-raised meats and specialty items.
Nineteen farms will be open both Saturday and Sunday. Seven will be open Saturday only. Hours vary by farm, so the county recommends checking the Farm Tour website for each stop before heading out, along with any costs, activity schedules or reservations.
Pets are not allowed, except service animals for people with disabilities.
A closer look at local food
This year’s tour comes as a nationwide foodborne parasite outbreak has renewed attention on where fresh produce comes from.
“The Farm Tour and Harvest Sale is a great opportunity for residents to connect directly with our farming community and see the important role agriculture continues to play in Montgomery County,” County Executive Marc Elrich said.
Why the Ag Reserve matters
The tour takes place across the county’s Agricultural Reserve. The 93,000-acre area makes up nearly a third of the county’s land. More than 580 farms and 350 horticultural businesses operate there. Together they generate more than $280 million for the local economy, according to the county.
How to plan your visit
Visitors can download the Visit Montgomery Adventure Planner app to access the Farm Tour Digital Passport, which maps routes and lets users check in at each stop. An interactive map of participating farms is available online. Farm listings, hours and descriptions are available at the county’s Farm Tour website.
For more information, the Montgomery County Office of Agriculture can be reached at 301-590-2859.
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