Oatlands to Host Annual Harvest Festival

Live music, hayrides, country line dancing, and Civil War re-enactors are just some of the things planned for this Sunday’s Harvest Festival at the Barn, an annual event, which takes place at Oatlands Historic House and Gardens.

Executive Director Andrea McGimsey said the festival is a “fantastic” way to experience history. Last year’s event had a nice turnout, she said, and it’s a great way to introduce people to the property.

“Oatlands is one of the oldest farms in Loudoun County,” McGimsey said. “In the past a lot of the focus here has actually been on the mansion and our gorgeous garden. We are trying to turn the community’s attention to more of our agricultural area.”

Ayrshire Farm, a certified organic and humane farm located in Upperville, VA, will exhibit their heritage breed farm animals while providing Shire horse drawn hayrides for guests.

Locally acclaimed country band Southern Winds will entertain while representatives from Fabbioli Cellars conduct wine tastings. Tours will also be provided of the mansion, gardens and barns.

“They’ve been cleaned and are available for viewing including the Carter Barn, built in the early 1800s,” McGimsey said. It will be open to the public for the first time ever, this Sunday. “It’s Loudoun history come alive. I’m really looking forward to it.”

The Harvest Festival will take place this Sunday, Oct. 21 from 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets are $10 for individuals, or $20 for a family (two adults plus children under 16) on the day of the event. A discount is offered for advance ticket purchases, which can be made online.

All proceeds will go towards the historic property. Call 703-777-3174 or visit www.oatlands.org.