Every October, Skagit farms open their gates for the annual Skagit Valley Festival of Family Farms, a two-day celebration of agriculture and heritage. This year’s event takes place Oct. 4–5 and features around 14 participating farms across Bow, Burlington, Concrete, Mount Vernon, Rockport, Sedro-Woolley, and La Conner, where visitors can wander orchards, meet animals, sample fresh produce, and hear stories passed down through generations.
Gordon Skagit Farms | Photograph by Jessamyn Tuttle
“It started with a group of local farms that wanted to be able to share the generational history of their farms,” says Tricia Plymale, the festival’s executive director. “From grandparents to child[ren] to grandkids, and then the changes that may happen over time.”
The focus is on family-owned and -operated farms—a rare approach in today’s business-driven agricultural world.
Schuh Farms | Photograph by Lara Dunning
“Keeping the focus on family farms continues to be a challenge,” Plymale says. “Profitability is difficult, but we really focus on supporting the farms that are still doing it, to help them be as successful as possible.”
Each farm offers something different—from beef cattle to produce to flowers. Visitors can take self-guided tours and hear farmers reflect on both tradition and change.
Taylor Shellfish Farms | Photograph courtesy of Taylor Shellfish
“You really get to see the difference in the land and ecology and hear what their great-grandparents might have raised, compared to what they’re raising now,” Plymale says. “Despite hardships like weather and financial strain, the rewards are clear. Every flower that blooms, every calf that’s born healthy—it shows your stewardship was good.”
For Plymale and the farmers, the festival is more than an event—it’s a living story of heritage, resilience, and community. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Skagit Valley, 360.421.4729, festivaloffamilyfarms.com
