Governor Northam proclaimed June 13-19 as Virginia Agriculture Week with a proclamation.
James City County's rich farmlands allowed the first settlers to survive and prosper when they reached our shores in 1607. The thriving rural character of James City County continues to be home to a variety of agriculture businesses and agritourism opportunities.
Did you know that Historic Mainland Farm has been continuously farmed since 1609 and is visible from Greensprings Interpretive Trail?
There are two large agritourism venues in James City County – Sweethaven Lavender Farm (Sweethaven) and the Williamsburg Winery. Sweethaven opened in 2019 and is open seasonally and hosts a variety of events. Sweethaven carries a variety of handmade products at their mercantile store located at their farm and for purchase online. The Williamsburg Winery is an award-winning winery that offers a variety of experiences on their 300-acre farm.
James City County is home to a variety of seasonal pick-your-own farms:
KelRae Farm and its Food Hub offer farm fresh produce at their farm market store and through their Food Hub. The Food Hub allows customers to purchase produce and prepared food items from KelRae partners through one convenient platform.
Additionally, the Toano Open Air Market is available to purchase items on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Toano Open Air Market is hosted by Tasha's Own, the County's original goat soap artisan.
Another “hidden gem” of an agriculture business in James City County is Fox Wire Farm Alpacas and Boutique. Farm tours are available by reservation and they have a boutique store near the farm filled with everything alpaca.
In addition to pick-your-own farms, James City County has numerous equine operations that host events and have lessons or trail rides available:
James City County is proud to be home to numerous agriculture businesses and we encourage you to explore the bounty of nature and celebrate Virginia Agriculture Week!
For questions or assistance, please email yesjcc@jamescitycountyva.gov.