Fine fall fare

Leaves changing color and a nip in the air bring memories of autumns of years past.

To renew that Midwestern fall feeling, just jump in the car and follow Garden Valley Road between Woodstock and Marengo for a very different kind of fall festival -- an autumn, arts-and-crafts-centered drive in the country.

"There's nothing more beautiful than McHenry County in the fall," said Robert Blue of Blue Eagle Pottery.

"That's why we decided to hold it in the fall."

The drive started 20 years ago when artist Fran Stake, who lives on the road, wanted to have people visit her studio to see her artwork. She talked to her neighbors and gathered some talented people together to participate in a multi-location art and craft fair.

"It's grown quite big," said Lois Grasser of Grasser Antiques.

"There are 13 farms this year, and the merchandise is diverse."

The sites will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Sunday.

Each stop along Garden Valley Road offers a distinctive country experience. Artisans will offer arts and crafts, ceramics and jewelry, but you also will run across pumpkins, other produce, hay rides, food, entertainment and a bonfire to warm you inside and out.

A few local groups take the opportunity to hold fundraisers at the walk. For example, Faith in Action is offering lunch in a barn. All proceeds help the group's mission of providing volunteer services to help support independent living for residents of McHenry County over age 62 who live in their own homes or with loved ones.

And the McHenry County Historical Society will conduct a quilt raffle. The society also has unique history books and many other items for sale.

The drive will take place rain or shine; there are many indoor displays.

"You can start anywhere along the 3½-mile road. Each farm is clearly numbered, 1 to 13, and you can pick up a map at any one," Glasser said.

"You'll get a raffle sheet with your map. Have it initialed at each stop for a chance to win one of many door prizes donated by participating sites."

The winners will be notified a week after the drive.

For more information, call Grasser at (815) 923-2415.

If you go

What: The 13 barns on the Autumn Drive offer art, crafts, garden treats and fall fun

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday-Sunday, Oct. 19-21

Where: Three and a half miles on Garden Valley Road, between Woodstock and Marengo

Info: (815) 923-2415