Spend a day driving through the country

Come and knock on their doors. They've been waiting for you.

Twelve neighbors along a country road are hosting the 21st annual Autumn Drive, held for three days starting at 9 a.m. Friday on Garden Valley Road between Woodstock and Marengo. An abundance of unique finds and community spirit are the heart of this anticipated event.

"It all started as a way for us neighbors living in the country to get to know each other," said Robert Blue, owner of Blue Eagle Pottery and one of the event's founding members.

"We wanted to be able to help each other out."

In the spirit of community garage sales, Blue, along with painter Fran Stake, farmer Henry Boi, and antiquer Lois Grasser, decided to open their doors to the public and share their distinct talents. Over the years, the number of participating farms and procurable wares has grown substantially.

Everything from fresh produce, crafts, antiques, holiday decorations, jewelry and clothing will be available. In addition to the shopping, farms will be hosting hayrides, musical entertainment and refreshments.

"Every farm always tries to top what they did the year before," Blue said.

But for Blue and the other farmers, Autumn Drive is not just about making a few extra dollars. Several stops along the way donate a portion of their proceeds to charity.

At the Lunch Barn, stop number five along the route, hungry guests will find brats, barbecue and brownies for sale by the United Church Lady Group of Woodstock. They will be giving their earnings to local food pantries. Vendors setting up shop at Cherry Lane Farm will also see their favorite charities benefit.

The Autumn Drive hosts also enjoy giving back to their customers. Visitors who travel to all 12 stops can have a card signed at each location and entered into a raffle for special door prizes.

All 12 stops are situated on a mile-and-a-half stretch, so guests can park their cars at one stop and walk to a few of the surrounding locations.

"Everyone is always so kind," said Blue. "People drive slow, relax and enjoy a day spent in the country."

For information, call (815) 923-2415 or visit www.autumndrive.net.

21st Annual Autumn Drive

When: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19, rain or shine

Where: Garden Valley Road, between Woodstock and Marengo. Route begins at Cherry Lane Farm, and ends at the McHenry County Historical Society's Perkins Hall.

Info: Parking is free and located throughout the route. Visit the web site at autumndrive.net