HARRISBURG, Pa. — The 108th Pennsylvania Farm Show will get underway Saturday, and thousands of visitors are expected to take over Harrisburg's Farm Show Complex to enjoy the Commonwealth's unofficial state fair.
With more than 1 million square feet of exhibition space, visitors will have plenty of sights and sounds to enjoy over the event, which runs from January 6-13.
Here are some new additions to look for this year.
Snuggle With a Baby Goat
Back by popular demand after a fantastic debut last year, visitors to the Farm Show can start their day in the Main Hall by snuggling up with a baby goat, courtest of the Friends of the Farm Show Foundation. The effort helps support future Farm Show fun and youth scholarships.
New in the Food Court
This year in the Food Court (thanks to PA Cooperative Potato Growers), visitors can connect with Pennsylvania's Polish and Russian roots by sampling a delicious potato pancake or pierogie.
Daily Dose of Dutch
On the Main Hall Stage this year, visitors can learn what Willkum means, how to read a hex sign, or bake a shoo fly pie by attending Daily Dose of Dutch, the Farm Show's salute to all things PA Dutch.
Bovine Beautification
Ever thought of a career in cow cosmetology? Connect with some bovine (and goat and sheep) beautification in new Fitting Competitions on Jan. 6-7, to see teams of three compete to fluff, dry, groom and clip their animals to show off their best features. Or check out a fitting clinic for your favorite species to learn what it takes to make livestock shine in the show ring.
Business Up Front, Party in the Back
Connect with pure fun and silliness at Farm Show’s first Mullet Contest, which will be held on Monday, Jan. 8. Competitors must sign up and check in at 11 a.m. at the Main Hall Stage.
New Classes and Competitions
Learn what it takes to grow a prize Purple Sweet Potato or Ludacrisp apple, a champion Czech Frosty rabbit, or see what youngsters’ imaginations can produce for the new Veggie Decorating Contest – all among new classes and competitions this January.
Celebrity Chefs
Connect with culinary inspiration at the PA Preferred Culinary Connection stage every day, every hour, for an all-star line-up of celebrity chefs led by Philadelphia’s own Chef Chris Scott, who has served as Executive Chef for CNN and Time Warner, been a finalist on Bravo’s Top Chef, has written several books, competed on OWN’s The Great Soul Food Cook Off and served as a judge on Beat Bobby Flay, Bobby Flay’s Triple Thread and more on the Food Network.
The Business of Growing
Whether you’re a backyard dabbler, established family farmer, or entrepreneur looking to expand, you’ll find new info on how to sustain and grow your business, get funding, combat climate change and bump up your production. Visit GIANT Expo Hall’s Conservation Exhibit to learn how farmers are working for cleaner air and water in your county, see the popular rainfall simulator and innovative equipment, and visit the expanded So You Want to Be a Farmer exhibit in Main Hall for interactive info and fun for all ages.
