Whidbey Island farmers are busy getting ready to host the hundreds of visitors expected for the annual Whidbey Island Farm Tour Oct. 4 and 5.

Participants in the free tour will not only see examples of working farms, but they will also connect with the farmers that make locally grown food, fiber and other products possible.

Visitors can wander at their own pace through 18 different farms on Saturday, Oct. 4, and Sunday, Oct. 5. You’ll be able to check out everything from horses, cows, alpacas, chicken, mussels and bats, to all types of herbs and produce, including grapes, lavender, pumpkins and squash to name a few. You’ll even have a chance to watch dog agility and horse training demonstrations. You can start anywhere and take in as many or as few farms as you like.

In addition, the “Farm to Home Fair” Oct. 4 at the Greenbank Farm will offer more merchandise, information, and activities. Sit in on a demonstration of cooking with fresh, locally grown food, learn how to make goat cheese, shop for locally made cosmetics, see skilled island crafts people weave local fibers into beautiful clothes, or watch bees as they make honey.

Seventeen Whidbey Island restaurants will deepen the experience even further by featuring locally grown foods on their menus for both days to provide “A Taste of the Farm.” And to make sure you can get some exercise in, the Deer Lagoon Grange will clear the floor to let you kick up your heals at a country & western dance on Saturday night.

Children’s activities are offered at several farms, 4-H’ers will be on hand to talk about their projects at some, and all sites have plenty to see and talk about.

For more information, driving directions, and details about all of the activities, visit the website at: www.whidbey farmtour.com.