Sunnycrest Farm

Sunnycrest Farm is a family-owned and operated farm located in the agricultural heart of Loudoun County, Virginia. Established in the late 1970s, it has grown from a small homestead into a prominent agritourism destination known for its high-quality fruit orchards and seasonal community events. The farm is celebrated for its commitment to sustainable practices and its role as a cornerstone of the local food system in the Washington metropolitan area.

History

The farm was founded in 1978 by the Miller family, who purchased the land with the vision of creating a sustainable agricultural business. Initially focusing on traditional row crops common to the Piedmont region, the family gradually transitioned to orchard fruits, taking advantage of the favorable microclimates within Loudoun County. Over the decades, the farm expanded its acreage and diversified its crops, navigating challenges such as the Great Blizzard of 1996 and periodic droughts that affected the Mid-Atlantic states. The late 1990s marked a significant shift towards agritourism, aligning with broader trends in Virginia to support direct-to-consumer agricultural experiences. This evolution was supported by local initiatives like the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development's emphasis on preserving rural character.

Operations and produce

The core agricultural operations center on a diverse array of tree fruits and seasonal vegetables. The farm is particularly renowned for its expansive peach and apple orchards, featuring both heirloom and modern varieties developed by institutions like the Cornell University breeding program. A significant portion of the harvest is sold through an on-site farm market, while other produce supplies local restaurants and participates in the Old Town Farmers' Market in Leesburg, Virginia. The farm employs integrated pest management strategies and collaborates with the Virginia Cooperative Extension to implement soil conservation techniques. Seasonal harvests include pumpkins, sweet corn, and a variety of berries, with the annual apple butter making event being a notable production highlight.

Community involvement

Sunnycrest Farm plays an active role in the community through educational programs and public events. It hosts annual festivals such as a Peach Festival in July and a Harvest Festival in October, which feature activities like hayrides and live music from local bands. The farm partners with the Loudoun County Public Schools system for field trips that teach children about sustainable agriculture and local food sources. Furthermore, it participates in donation programs with area food banks, including the Loudoun Hunger Relief organization. These efforts are central to its mission of fostering a connection between the public and the region's agricultural heritage.

Facilities and features

The farm's infrastructure supports both its agricultural and visitor functions. Key facilities include a large, renovated barn that houses the retail market and a bakery known for its fruit pies and cider doughnuts. The property features a carefully designed U-pick orchard area, a picnic pavilion overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a seasonal corn maze cut in partnership with a design firm from Pennsylvania. For children, there is a play area with a John Deere pedal tractor course and a petting zoo that includes Nigerian Dwarf goats. Ample parking and restroom facilities are maintained to accommodate the large crowds during peak seasons.

Recognition and awards

The farm's quality and community impact have been acknowledged by several regional and state organizations. It has been a multiple-time recipient of the "Best of Loudoun" award in the farm market category, as voted by readers of the Loudoun Times-Mirror. In 2019, it received the "Virginia's Finest" designation from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for its apple products. The farm has also been featured in publications such as Northern Virginia Magazine and was highlighted by the Virginia Tourism Corporation as a top agritourism destination in the Shenandoah Valley region.