Lexington County joins agriculture and art tour

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Lexington County is one of three counties joining the Clemson Cooperative Extension Service’s 2021 Ag + Art Tour, which begins later this month.

In its ninth year, the tour of area farms and agribusinesses provides opportunities to see where food comes from and to watch local artisans in action. Demonstrations of everything from wreath making to gourmet candy making will take place, with some wares available for purchase. Musical performances are also scheduled.   

“This tour began in 2012 as a way for people to learn more about local agriculture and local artisans,” Will Culler, tour director and member of the Clemson Extension Agribusiness team, said in a news release. “We work with volunteers from a diverse spectrum of organizations in each county to design a tour that truly reflects local flavors. We encourage everyone to plan a tour of some of our state’s best homegrown and handmade experiences.”

Lexington joins Colleton and Charleston counites on the 2021 tour. Participating Lexington County farms are Clinton Sease Farm, Fire Barrel Farm, Locklair Farm, Mercer House Winery and The Farm.

“Our regional tourism office is excited to host this event in Lexington County. Both locals and visitors will enjoy this fun agritourism event in our region,” Miriam Atria, president and CEO of the Capital City/Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board, said in a news release.

The self-guided tours take places from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays and from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sundays from May 29 until June 27. The tour comes to the Lexington locations June 5-6 and will be in Richland County June 12-13.

Richland participants are Greenleaf Farms, Purple Tuteur Farm, Doko Farm, Sal’s Ol’ Timey Feed and Seed, Fabel Farms, Mill Creek Greenhouses, One Hubcap Farm, Fox Hideaway Farm, Dolce Vita Farms, Eze Farms, and Eastover Community Garden.

A list of county participants and tour dates is available online.

The tour takes place rain or shine, Culler said, though sites may close in case of severe weather. Service animals are allowed as needed but visitors are discouraged from bringing dogs to working farms.

The tour is fee, though there may be charges to participate in some activities. All state and local COVID-19 regulations will be followed.