Rural Prince William to be showcased on Farm Tour

Prince William County residents can enjoy a weekend in the country by experiencing modern farm life and the area's rich rural history at the annual Western Prince William County Farm Tour Sept. 27 and 28.

Nine locations will be open to the public, with fun and educational activities for the whole family.

Parking areas will be designated at each stop.

The tours are free and are promoted by the farm tour families and county agencies in cooperation with Western Prince William County Farm Tour, Inc.

The Sept. 27 tour will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Sept. 28 tour from noon to 4 p.m. For more information go to http://www.pwcfarmtour.com or call 703-369-5253.

The tours will offer farmers that grow vegetables and flowers and raise horses, alpaca and other farm animals.

The tour includes LynnVale Farm & Studio, 4505 Sudley Road, Gainesville; Smith Family Farm, 5770 Artemus Road, Gainesville; Stoney Lonesome Farm, 7570 Falkland Drive, Gainesville; Blue Top Farm, 10604 Reid Lane, Nokesville; Yankey Farm, 13007 Vint Hill Road, Nokesville; Prince William County Cooperative Extension Teaching Gardens (Sept. 27 only) at 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, where Master Gardener volunteers and staff will give tours of the theme gardens; Prince William County Brentsville Historic Centre where visitors can learn abut skills that were important in everyday life on a farm in the county in the 1800s; and Prince William County Children's Farm, 14807 Bristow Road, Manassas, where guests will have a chance to meet farm animals.

Families are invited to bring a camera and picnic, but no pets are allowed on the tour. The theme is "Opening Our Gates."

Farm tour maps are available and bright yellow directional signs will be placed along the way.

Staff writer Bennie Scarton Jr. can be reached at 703-369-6707.