As autumn paints the Shenandoah Valley in golden hues, Frederick County's agricultural community prepares for one of its most anticipated events: the Fall Farm Crawl. Hosted by the Frederick County Homesteaders, this annual celebration invites locals and visitors alike to step beyond the farm gate and experience the heart of the region's rural heritage.
In this episode of "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael welcomed a panel of passionate farm advocates to discuss the upcoming event. Joining her were Sam Armel, the driving force behind the Frederick County Homesteaders; Jaclyn Mommen from Patti's Place at Laurel Grove Wine Farm; and Christa Nahhas, steward of La Grange Family Farm. Together, they painted a vivid picture of what makes the Farm Crawl a must-attend experience.
A Mission Rooted in Connection
Founded in 2022, the Frederick County Homesteaders emerged from a desire to reconnect the community with its agricultural roots. "Our mission is to connect farms, local businesses, and families to revitalize agriculture in Frederick County," explained Sam. The group's initiatives include a biannual Shop Local Guide—part directory, part recipe book, and part love letter to the region's farms—and a series of hands-on workshops teaching everything from canning to bread baking.
But the centerpiece of their efforts is the Farm Crawl, a self-guided, self-paced tour that opens the doors to working farms for one special day. "It's not a bus tour," Sam emphasized. "You get to plan your own route, visit the farms that interest you, and experience firsthand the diversity of our local agriculture."
Meet the Farmers: Stories from the Land
Each participating farm brings its own story and flavor to the event. At Patti's Place at Laurel Grove Wine Farm, Jaclyn and her husband have transformed a historic schoolhouse into a vibrant community hub. Their commitment to organic, regenerative farming is evident in every corner, from the market garden bursting with fresh produce to the innovative conservation cover crops. Visitors can enjoy hay bale tractor tours, sample farm-fresh fare at the café, and even explore a food forest where children are encouraged to pick their own snacks straight from the vine.
La Grange Family Farm, under Christa's stewardship, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the valley. Housed in the historic McLeod house, the farm blends tradition with innovation. Christa, a former chef, has curated a "chef's market garden" and raises heritage animals with an eye for quality and sustainability. The farm offers historic house tours, a bustling farm stand, and a beloved "kidpreneur" fair where young entrepreneurs showcase their creations. "We want to be a collaborative point for the community," Christa shared, highlighting the farm's open-door policy for local groups and families.
A Day of Discovery and Delight
The Farm Crawl is more than just a tour—it's an immersive experience. Attendees begin their day at Solenberger's Hardware store, where they receive maps, wristbands, and the coveted Shop Local Guide. The wristbands not only grant access to participating farms but also serve as a symbol of support for local agriculture. With a modest ticket price ($5 per person or $10 per group), the event is designed to be accessible for families, with proceeds helping to keep the experience affordable and inclusive.
Throughout the day, visitors can explore a variety of farms, each offering unique activities: petting zoos, farm tours, hands-on demonstrations, and opportunities to purchase everything from beeswax candles to locally raised meats. The event also features a communal lunch, with options for different dietary needs, showcasing the bounty of the region.
Preserving Heritage, Inspiring the Future
Beyond the festivities, the Farm Crawl serves a deeper purpose. It fosters a sense of stewardship and pride in the land, encourages sustainable practices, and nurtures the next generation of farmers and food lovers. As Janet and her guests reflected, the event is a reminder that behind every farm is a story—a heartbeat—that connects us all.
For more information on the Fall Farm Crawl, including tickets and participating farms, visit frederickcountyhomesteaders.com/farmcrawl or follow them on social media. Whether you're a lifelong resident or a curious newcomer, the Farm Crawl offers a rare chance to experience the valley's agricultural legacy up close—and perhaps, to become part of its ongoing story.
