The 101st Pennsylvania Farm Show

The Pennsylvania Farm Show celebrates its 101st year this January as the world’s largest indoor agricultural fair. For some, it’s a place to see cute farm animals, grab some delicious mushroom burgers, and stroll through the exhibits with a milkshake and funnel cake. For others, the PA Farm Show represents and defines the state’s standards of conservation, environmentalism, and respect for the beautiful bounties we reap from our ever-giving environment. From cattle to corn, the Farm Show is a showcase of the foundation that keeps our state well-fed, providing for those without the opportunities to farm as successfully as we can, and the bond we make with not only the land but also the creatures that walk upon it.

This isn’t your average arts fest. Many of the exhibits at the Farm Show may seem a little strange, but are representations, in one way or another of our state’s heritage as well as its future. What the Farm Show is most famous for, and what you will get to see first, is the half-ton themed butter sculpture. With a wire frame inside to keep this inedible butter from losing its form, the butter sculpture weighs a whopping 1,000 pounds of Carlisle, PA Land’O’Lakes Butter. While this one may catch your eye, and keep you staring, there are other activities that can teach you a new skill, give you an adrenaline rush, or warm your heart. Some serious stakes are set in the shawl competition, animals are judged on quality, and the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association sells delicious $4 milkshakes with a surprise flavor at its stand. The Farm Show will also host thirty-two wineries from the region, including Mazza, Nissley, Happy Valley, and Shade Mountain.

So, put on your boots and your flannel, get used to the smell (it’s not going anywhere anytime soon) and get walking because the Pennsylvania Farm Show has so much to see and do; there’s never enough time… until next year. Visit the website to view photos, browse exhibits, and get directions.

PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center

2300 N. Cameron Street

Harrisburg, PA 17110

(717) 787-5373

Brandon Sherbo, Guest Blogger