The 2022 Upperville Colt & Horse Show presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™ , announced that Governor and Mrs. Youngkin will attend the event on Sunday, June 12. The Governor will issue a proclamation at the horse show honoring the show as the oldest horse show in America and announcing June 6-12... read more →
Jun 06
May 19
Loudoun Economic Development invites residents and visitors to enjoy the best of what local agriculture has to offer during the 2022 Loudoun Spring Farm Tour, held rain or shine, the weekend of May 21-22. All locations provide an educational component for visitors, and most will be open from 10 a.m.... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Mar 28
Loudoun students will enjoy another All-Star roster of farmer trading cards this spring, thanks to a strong collaboration between Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public Schools’ Nutrition Services office. The award-winning initiative, now in its sixth year, has become a favorite among students and farmers alike. This year,... read more →
Jan 28
Nor’Easters, polar vortexes and blizzards, oh my! It’s winter in the Loudoun Valley, and Mother Nature isn’t holding back on frostiness. During this season of snow, you might forget about the beautiful colors and bountiful farm harvests–but you’re missing out! Right now, you can still enjoy shopping local from the... read more →
Dec 24
Cheers! With 2021 in the rear-view mirror and our New Year's resolutions already on the clock, consider a glass of Loudoun County wine to make 2022 the best year yet. Wine's Super Health Benefits It's not just the superior quality, supporting local farms, or the unmatched experience of a wine... read more →
Dec 17
You may have heard the phrase, "you are what you eat," and as we gear up for the holidays and new year's resolutions, remember to make your daily diet part of your plans. Whether your goals are related to health, wealth, professional or personal, they can probably be improved with... read more →
Dec 12
While all of Loudoun County may not fit neatly under the tree this holiday season, giving the gift of an authentic Loudoun experience is sure to land you on the 'nice' list with friends and family. One of the most important lessons of the last two years is that time... read more →
Dec 10
Even as Loudoun grows faster than any other county in Virginia, the community charm gets stronger in Loudoun's downtown districts. Strolling down the historic corridors of Leesburg, Middleburg, Purcellville, Lovettsville, Hillsboro, Hamilton and Round Hill, it's not hard to imagine former U.S. presidents James Monroe and John F. Kennedy doing... read more →
Dec 06
The 2021 holiday shopping season is in full swing, and with it comes more incentives than ever to bypass global supply chain issues and shop from local farms, businesses and suppliers. Blame it on COVID-19, workforce shortages or the Suez Canal, but one thing is certain: packages are taking longer... read more →
Nov 15
Rebecca Brouwer is always up before the sun at Shepherds Corner Farm. It’s essential to her creative process. Rising to meet the day from her farmhouse in Purcellville, Va., Brouwer grabs her flashlight and makes the morning commute—about a minute’s walk across the property—to a cabin where she keeps her... read more →
Oct 16
While the harvest season is often considered a time of plenty, not every family in Loudoun County always has enough to eat. Loudoun Economic Development and the business community want our food-insecure neighbors to have what they need to thrive, and you can help! We're introducing a new community support... read more →
Oct 16
The Loudoun Fall Farm Tour returns this weekend, and you are encouraged to enjoy a self-guided, family-friendly weekend on the farm, improved with an Eventzee-powered Fall Farm Tour mobile app! This year marks the 28th annual Loudoun Fall Farm Tour, which began in 1993 as the Loudoun Fall Colors Tour. Since... read more →
Oct 13
On Saturday, Oct. 9, the Lovettsville Cooperative Market held an interactive groundbreaking at the future site of its community-owned grocery store. The store has been years in the making and will be located in Lovettsville Town Commons, right off the Squirkle in downtown Lovettsville. The celebration followed a lengthy capital... read more →
Oct 12
Poll one dozen people in Loudoun County and you might get 12 different answers for the quintessential fall activity. For some, it's picking fresh Virginia apples or selecting the perfect pumpkin. For others, it's horseback riding and leaf-peeping through the countryside. No matter what you enjoy, Loudoun County farms provide... read more →
Aug 17
"I was very dissatisfied with my work, and my personal life had taken a major nosedive. By the end of 2020, I was perhaps at the lowest point of my life," Ian Triplett admitted, standing on the porch of his grow room. At just 64 square feet, the entire operation... read more →
Aug 09
"I realized that a homestead was not about fancy twists on traditional items," owner and farmer Christopher Griggs said about his farm-sourced products at Homestead 1870. "It was more about simplicity." "Simplicity" is a far cry from "easy," and Griggs wouldn't have it any other way. His idyllic property in... read more →
Aug 01
Unusual Inspiration for Double 8 Alpaca Ranch Like most people who start an alpaca ranch, Doug Kittrell was inspired by a call to the plumber. Wait, what? In the early 2000s, Doug and Bonnie Kittrell were living in New Jersey. They needed plumbing work done and got a bid back... read more →
Jul 27
Between the fresh air and fresh produce, July is the perfect time to embrace alfresco dining. National Picnic Month is upon us, and we want to show you how to best take advantage of it with family and friends! Start building your perfect basket with the help of the local... read more →
Jul 25
She prefers her Loudoun Made Loudoun Grown-branded ballcap, a Long Stone Farm version, or one supporting a fellow rural business in Loudoun County's bustling economy, but one thing is certain: Casey Wisch wears a lot of hats. Literally and figuratively. Casey and her husband, Justin, run Long Stone Farm in... read more →
Jul 18
Meet the Grants "We have an unclassic family farm, in the sense that we don't have enough kids," Silcott Springs Farm co-owner Sam Grant said with a chuckle. "My wife, Teresa, and I raised two families of one kid each, spaced 15 years apart. That's not conducive to being a... read more →
Jul 13
How does a farm go from specializing in raising water buffalo to pioneering CBD and industrial hemp production? That's a great question for Loudoun farmer Jeff Boogaard - a U.S. Navy veteran and corpsman with experience in the health and sciences, finance and technology - who recognizes an opportunity when... read more →
Jul 02
It’s finally summer, and everyone is eager to celebrate – however, big crowds aren’t for everyone, especially if you’ve forgotten social skills during the pandemic. Throughout the county, there are lesser-known spots (without the crowds) for every type of outing. Take advantage of these unique nooks and spaces found only... read more →
Jul 02
"A lot of these folks haven’t really been given chances. Our society hasn’t given them the opportunities that it could or should." (The Winchester Star, 2019) Greg Masucci and his wife Maya Wechsler are on a mission with their nonprofit farm, A Farm Less Ordinary, which provides fresh food to... read more →
May 10
Loudoun Economic Development proudly presents the 29th annual Spring Farm Tour, a hybrid event featuring nearly 30 farms, representing a cross-section of Loudoun’s diverse rural industries. Starting the week of May 10, the department will feature different participating farms on its Loudoun Farms website and social media channels, leading up... read more →
Apr 27
You don't have to look very far to find a heartwarming, handmade gift for Mom this year! The Loudoun Made Loudoun Grown Marketplace has something she'll love, all from local artisans and farmers. Marketplace vendors offer a variety of delivery and pickup options, so be sure to order now! After... read more →
Apr 26
“You’ve got to stop doing that. You can’t buy the first thing you see,” Hadi Akkad’s wife told him, according to Loudoun Now, about the day that he purchased Flying Ace Farm near Taylorstown in Loudoun County. But Akkad had a vision for what the 55-acre farm could be, with... read more →
Apr 05
Loudoun Economic Development and the Loudoun County Public School’s School Nutrition Services office announced the starting lineup of local farmers featured in this year’s deck of Farmer Trading Cards, distributed to elementary school students across the county. This award-winning collaboration is back for its fifth year, coinciding with the start... read more →
Feb 05
When there's a winter weather alert, it seems like everyone rushes to the grocery store to stock up before they're snowed in. But smart shoppers know how to avoid a crowd! Head for a Loudoun farm and pick up these eight snow day essentials, all while enjoying some open air.... read more →
Nov 25
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Small Business Saturday. The annual tradition, celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, provides a heartwarming start to the holiday season. Just one simple act will show friends, family and Loudoun businesses that you care: shop local and Take Loudoun Home for the Holidays. Whether... read more →
Jun 11
As our region enters Phase Two of the Forward Virginia plan, Loudoun County's restaurants are finding unique ways to welcome guests. Looking for a gorgeous view of the Blue Ridge Mountains? Or perhaps you seek dining in a secret garden, or a secluded table at the center of barley field.... read more →
Jun 01
Loudoun County entered Phase One of the Forward Virginia plan on Friday, May 29. During this initial stage of recovery, non-essential retail businesses and restaurants can welcome customers at 50% of their regular occupancy limit. You may have noticed new patio dining in front of your favorite eateries, due to... read more →
May 11
The Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown Marketplace is an easy way to support Loudoun County farmers and rural businesses. The Marketplace is essentially a virtual farmers market that allows you to shop and select the delivery or pick-up options that work best for you. There are currently three centralized pick-up locations... read more →
May 08
The Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown Marketplace is an easy way to support Loudoun County farmers and rural businesses. The Marketplace is essentially a virtual farmers market that allows you to shop and select the delivery or pick-up options that work best for you. There are currently three centralized pick-up locations... read more →
May 08
The Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown Marketplace is an easy way to support Loudoun County farmers and rural businesses. The Marketplace is essentially a virtual farmers market that allows you to shop and select the delivery or pick-up options that work best for you. There are currently three centralized pick-up locations... read more →
May 07
While neighbors, friends and loved ones are working on the frontlines of this pandemic, it can be hard to find ways to show gratitude while social distancing. Here are creative ways you can support local business while saying “thank you” to essential workers. Plus, local businesses that are offering discounts... read more →
May 07
A lot of people are experiencing hardship during the global coronavirus pandemic, but many Loudoun businesses are stepping up to help. From providing free meals, fabric for masks for healthcare workers, and other relief efforts, our community coming together is what makes us proud to call Loudoun home. Here are... read more →
May 06
It is no secret that Loudoun County boasts some beautiful views, scenic landscapes, and historic settings. So, when you start to get COVID-19 stir crazy, keep these Loudoun locations in mind when you want a change of scenery while maintaining a safe distance from others: Dirt Farm Brewing Nestled on... read more →
Apr 30
It is important that we all do our part by staying home to flatten the COVID-19 curve. However, staying home and cooking every meal can leave you uninspired by dinnertime. If you have been looking for ways to support the Loudoun restaurants in your area, but don’t want to leave... read more →
Apr 28
Harvest season lasts all year long at Endless Summer Harvest in Purcellville, Virginia. Thanks to a sophisticated hydroponic system, the 12,000-square-foot farm produces lettuce, herbs, and other greens equivalent to 12 acres of typical production. “That is the future of farming,” says Mary Ellen Taylor, the farm’s proprietress. “You have... read more →
Apr 27
A charming downtown and an innovative spirit are leading economic recovery in one of Loudoun County’s small towns. While many businesses across the nation are scrambling to adapt to new sales and safety practices, Middleburg restaurants and shops are thriving under popular new programs. Middleburg Mayor Bridge Littleton hopped on... read more →
Apr 23
With so much interruption to your usual shopping routine, it may seem like all of your favorite products are hard to find. Running errands in a socially-distanced world also requires significant time and planning to look up each business’s offerings and hours of operation. Luckily, there’s a simplified shopping experience... read more →
Apr 15
We are certainly living in unprecedented times - which leads to innovation. While most are adapting to their new normal of working from home, local breweries are finding creative ways for you to enjoy your favorite beer in the comfort of your home. Check out our list below of breweries... read more →
Apr 15
During the coronavirus pandemic, a lot of Loudoun County locals have found themselves in a new role: homeschool teachers. Whether you have one child at home with one teacher or multiple children with multiple teachers, you might find yourself running out of educational ideas trying to find ways to keep... read more →
Apr 15
Since gyms and local recreation areas are closed to the public for the foreseeable future, it can be hard to stay active and get a workout when you are social distancing at home without access to gym equipment. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of local gyms and studios offering... read more →
Apr 15
Purchasing Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown products is a great way to support local businesses, especially during these uncertain times. With everything from locally sourced meats, produce, cheeses, dry goods (and even toilet paper!), consider stopping by these local markets the next time you head out for your grocery run. Natural... read more →
Apr 15
While the entire country is practicing social distancing, Loudoun County wineries are embracing creative virtual experiences that showcase their products while being compliant to state and federal regulations. While it can be argued that most people choose to visit wineries for the experience, these Loudoun wineries are allowing the consumer... read more →
Apr 15
While spring already means cleaning for most, being cooped up at home has us itching to tackle some much-needed house projects on the to-do list. Whether you are looking to add some curb appeal by fixing up your garden beds, or the overwhelm of basement clutter has you lost in... read more →
Mar 17
https://vimeo.com/398090083/eefaae4b15 Under normal circumstances, The Department of Economic Development is dedicated to attracting, growing and retaining targeted businesses and to promoting entrepreneur-ism in order to diversify and strengthen Loudoun’s economy. These are not normal circumstances. The potential impact of COVID-19, or the coronavirus, on our business climate is real, unpredictable... read more →
Nov 19
Chris Blosser Rural Business Development Manager It’s that time of year again, when the front office mailbox is bombarded with catalogs from the mail-order steak company, the pear company, and “personalized” corporate gift companies. In today’s global marketplace, there are countless ways you say “thank you” to your employees and... read more →
Oct 17
It’s harvest season in Loudoun, and there’s no better reason to enjoy the season than by visiting Loudoun’s Fall Farm Tour, October 19 and 20. This totally FREE, self-guided tour through western Loudoun County, Va. Is full of flavorful goodness from our Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown products. Here’s what to look... read more →
Oct 17
Loudoun's Fall Farm Tour is finally here, and more than 30 farms and rural businesses are ready to welcome visitors like you throughout the weekend! DOWNLOAD: Loudoun Fall Farm Tour Brochure The best way to enjoy all that Loudoun farms have to offer is to plan ahead for travel and... read more →
Aug 23
According to a report by ApartmentGuide, Leesburg has more breweries per capita than any town or city within 400 miles. The study, which only considered towns or cities with more than 50,000 residents, listed the top-10 brewery capitals in the U.S. Leesburg came in tied for sixth with Vista, Calif.,... read more →
Aug 14
While the end of summer is in sight, the harvest season on Loudoun farms continues for months to come, giving you ample opportunity to Take Loudoun Home. RELATED: Loudoun's Harvest Calendar Whether you're planning a perfect Labor Day cookout, thinking ahead for Thanksgiving, or simply want to shop for groceries,... read more →
Jul 30
Planning to join us this Saturday for “Polo in the Park: Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown Night” at Morven Park? It’s the Game of Kings, the fastest game on four feet, and the perfect way to spend an evening in Loudoun County, Va. ALSO READ: A Beginner’s Guide to Loudoun County... read more →
Jul 03
Have you heard what all of the buzz is about? Loudoun County is a haven for beekeepers, even at a time when pollinator populations are struggling around the world. Beehives play an essential role in the success of farms, and not just for the honey, wax and derivative products like... read more →
Jun 25
Polo may be known as “The Sport of Kings,” but it has never been closer to the people in Loudoun County, Va. This photogenic, fast-paced game makes the perfect night out for couples and families alike, mixing the glamor of equestrian events with the fan access of minor league sports.... read more →
Jun 21
Before tipping back your next pint of craft beer, drink in this historical perspective from Matt Hagerman, who helped save the craft beer movement in Loudoun County. Hagerman is the CEO and founder of Lost Rhino Brewing Co., which is celebrating eight years in Ashburn this summer. That includes a full day... read more →
Jun 12
Did you know? According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's latest Ag Census, Loudoun is home to more female-owned farms (725) than any other county in Virginia. These women touch every aspect of farming and production in Loudoun, from raising animals and sewing seeds to brewing, winemaking and creating fine... read more →
Mar 28
Did you know that all of the world’s continents (besides Antarctica) have at least one species of native animal living on a working Loudoun farm? Today we’re looking at Loudoun farm animals with genetic roots in Africa. ALSO READ: Tour Asia on Loudoun County Farms Africa is the only continent... read more →
Mar 05
Cool fact of the day: all of the world’s continents (well, except for Antarctica) have at least one species of native animal living on a working Loudoun farm. Today we’re looking at Loudoun farm animals with Asian roots. Here is a sampling of farms where you can find each type of... read more →
Jan 29
At a time when Loudoun County has very low unemployment, it should be no surprise that animals are entering the workforce. Everyone knows about K-9 police dogs and barn cats. But did you know that some of our farm animals are in the “gig economy” as well? Here are three... read more →
Jan 17
The accolades keep piling up for Loudoun’s Casanel Vineyards, which returned with top honors from the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of American wines in the world. Sifting through 6,800 wines from 1,132 wineries, Casanel was awarded “Best in Class” for its 2016 Carménère, beating out... read more →
Jan 15
We’re only weeks into 2019, but it’s already crunch time for most people’s New Year’s resolutions. Whether your goals were to lose weight, eat healthier or save time on things like grocery shopping, community-supported agriculture could be your trick to resolution success. CSAs are a subscription between you and a... read more →
Nov 07
Starting November 23, area residents can take a scenic drive to a farm in Loudoun County, Virginia to cut their own Christmas trees. Many tree farms will also offer hot cider or hay rides, or fresh food and gifts for sale. “The Saturday after Thanksgiving is ‘Small Business Saturday,’ and... read more →
Nov 01
Looking for the perfect gifts this holiday season? You’re in luck because Loudoun has nearly 100 Loudoun, VA Made • Loudoun, VA Grown participants offering excellent gifts for sale. In addition to getting great presents, you’ll be buying quality local products, helping small business owners, and supporting the entire Loudoun... read more →
Oct 20
Loudoun County is D.C.'s Wine Country, boasting more grapes and more vineyards than anywhere else in Virginia. But these rolling hills of vines are for more than just breathtaking views--they're thriving farm businesses. During Loudoun County's Fall Farm Tour on October 20 and 21, be sure to visit these wineries... read more →
Oct 19
If you are a foodie, this tour is for you! Experience all of the flavorful goodness that local Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown products offer during the Fall Farm Tour, October 20 and 21. You can learn more about each stop below and click here to see an interactive map with all of the stops.... read more →
Oct 19
The Fall Farm Tour "Look and See" itinerary takes you beyond just plants and animals to explore the depth and creativity of Loudoun's agricultural businesses! From history to hydroponics and stress relief, we've got your master plan for the weekend of October 20 and 21. Click here to see an interactive map with... read more →
Oct 19
Are you interested in meeting horses and other fuzzy farm animals? If so, follow the stops on the Horses and More itinerary for the Fall Farm tour taking place October 20 and 21. You can learn more about each stop below and click here to see an interactive map with all of the stops. The... read more →
Oct 15
According to decades of immunology research (summarized in this handy Forbes article), we better understand the relationship between playing in the dirt and developing a strong immune system. We also know that eating locally sourced, responsibly grown fruits and vegetables are key to growing up and staying healthy. So what... read more →
Jun 05
Loudoun has so many wonderful things to offer and one of them is great craft beer! On June 4, 2018, the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild announced the 2018 Virginia Craft Beer Cup Winners. There were 27 categories with the top three brews named in each category. We think all of our breweries have great beer, but... read more →
Mar 01
Do you have a burning question for our own local celebrity Winslow? Winslow took over the Loudoun Farms Facebook page to field questions about everything from his racing record to the new legislation regarding dogs in breweries and everything in between. Photo Credit: Ed Felker Winslow, a wirehaired Dachshund from Lovettsville,... read more →
Feb 13
Loudoun Economic Development, the Loudoun Arts Council and Franklin Park Arts Center have partnered to bring you this amazing "agricoutour" exhibit and improve the linkage between urban and rural economies. On February 23rd from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, you will be able to meet the... read more →
Jan 30
Just imagine it - blooming flowers, longer days, cool breezes . . . that's what I'm dreaming of these cold and blustery days. The little light at the end of the tunnel is what we call "spring" in Virginia and some days it seems farther and farther away. But don't... read more →
Jan 10
Spring is still a few months away, but for those who covet the fresh-picked from-the-farm strawberry, we have the perfect locations right here in Loudoun County! Typically, Loudoun County pick-your-own strawberry season starts in mid-to-late May, but check back in late April to see if conditions are right for an... read more →
Oct 22
Rejoice! Wine tasting isn’t just fun to do, it’s also good for you, according to research from Yale neuroscientist Gordon Shepherd. In his recently published book, Neuroenology: How the Brain Creates the Taste of Wine, he argues that wine tasting actually “engages more of our brain than any other human... read more →