Get In the Summer Spirit With Fresh Berries at Great Country Farms in Virginia

Summer in Virginia means lots of things: leisurely hours outside, road trips to the beach, a few mountain hikes, camping trips, and, of course, lots and lots of fresh fruit. If you're like me, you're counting down the days til berries are in season. And while finding a great deal at the grocery store is rewarding, nothing beats getting them right from the source. Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Virginia, is one such place that invites visitors to indulge in freshly picked berries and all kinds of farm fun in the most beautiful setting.

Tucked away at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Country Farms is a 400-acre working farm committed to growing top-quality produce and sharing the experience with the community. Since the 1970s, the Zurschmeide Family has farmed in Loudoun County, and in 1993, the second generation of the Zurschmeides opened Great Country Farms along with a Community Supported Agriculture Program. The Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce has recognized Great Country Farms as “Agribusiness of the Year” twice, thanks to the farm's impressive innovation.

But the farm is more than its impressive growing practices; it's a place for visitors to learn about local produce and engage with the land in a way that's both meaningful and fun. This time of the year, in late spring, the farm is abuzz with all things strawberries. The strawberry crop can vary from year to year, and according to the farm, 2025 has been tricky for strawberries. While you may not be able to pick them from the farm this season, fresh strawberries will still be available for purchase at the farm store. But that's not all! You can make plans to attend the annual Strawberry Jubilee Festival, scheduled for May 24th, 25th, 31st, and June 1, 2025. The festival will have fresh doughnuts, local coffee, parades, games, and more.

If you miss strawberry season, rest assured that more delicious U-pick crops are on the way. Cherry season is typically in June, followed by peaches—and the ever-popular peach slushies—and blackberries in mid-to-late summer. The best way to stay up-to-date is by visiting the "Crops By Season" section of the farm's website to see which fruits are in season and whether or not they're available for U-pick.

In addition to fresh produce, the farm is also home to some adorable farm animals. Plan your visit by making a reservation and you can opt for exciting experiences such as baby goat cuddling, feeding the farm animals, and more.

As you can see, there are lots of ways to experience Great Country Farms. The Farm Market is open daily, featuring donuts, fresh coffee, and seasonal produce between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. If you have time, be sure to visit the farm's other businesses, Bluemont Vineyards and Dirt Farm Brewing, located just up the mountain from the farm.

For more information about what's growing at Great Country Farms, check out their official Facebook page or website, which includes a calendar of exciting, family-friendly events. Looking for more summer fun? Learn why this underrated beach town in Virginia is the next big thing in slow travel.