The 18th annual Bainbridge Island Harvest Fair, hosted by Friends of the Farms, will return to Johnson Farm from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22.

Festivities will go on rain or shine — much like farm work.

The beloved island tradition has for nearly two decades now seen several thousand visitors gather at Johnson Farm (at the intersection of Fletcher Bay Road NE and NE Twin Ponds Road) to enjoy a cornucopia of autumnal offerings, including cider pressing, horse-drawn carriage rides and a sheep-shearing demonstration.

Admission is $10 per person, which includes access to all rides, though those younger than 2 get in free. Also, there will be a special discounted rate ($8 per person) for anyone arriving by bike.

The day-long celebration of the local farming community will also include square dancing, 4-H animal displays, and live music, as well as a beer-and-wine garden.

Delicious local food will available from several vendors, or guests can pack a picnic, spread a blanket and enjoy the day on 15-acres of prized public farmland.

Several contests will also be going on that day, with prizes awarded in all three categories: best dahlia, largest zucchini and best pie. Would-be competitors should enter by 11:30 a.m. at the contest booth.

Judging will take place at 1 p.m., with the winners announced at 2:30.

Johnson Farm is a historic piece of land owned by the city of Bainbridge, and has been managed by Friends of the Farms since 2012.

The farm is open to the public for walking, picnicking and foraging, and is also the site of an orchard managed by the Bainbridge Island Fruit Club, where anyone can come enjoy the literal fruits of their labors each fall when the many apple varieties ripen.

Three local farmers also utilize Johnson Farm. Heyday Farm and Butler Green Farm operate the fenced-in crop area, and Persephone Farm has a CSA pickup location in the green barn.

Vireo Farm is reportedly in the process of building the island’s first hydroponic farm in the lower lot, too.

Friends of the Farms works with 14 gardeners to run a year-round P-patch there, as well. Gardeners grow food and flowers for their families and help maintain community areas, equipment and grape vines.

Visit www.friendsofthefarms.org/harvest-fair to learn more about Johnson Farm and the Harvest Fair.