Last Sunday we spent the day at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg. We walked through rows of tractors, 4H Displays, and all kinds of farm trailers, and equipments. It’s like shopping for farm equipment-if you are a farmer, and learning all about our environment.
We had lunch here in the exhibition hall. We dinned on a perfectly cooked Pennsylvania Baked Potato and a delicious chocolate milk shake from Pennsylvania Dairy men. There are other options for food, all from Pennsylvania farms. The prices are good, the food is good.
The best part of my day at the farm show was watching the draft horse competition in one of the arenas. We watched beautiful strong horses, jingle bells and all, circle the arena for the judges to view. It was spectacular. Like an old fashioned winter, just without the snow!
The arenas have signs at their entrance to alert you of times and event going on in the arena. I found that very helpful.
In the cattle hall we visited with extended family members who were there with their Angus cattle. Absolutely beautiful animals and the farm was awarded prize ribbons for their cattle. While you are in this area, cattle are being walked back and forth to the cattle shower area and for judging so be aware of the animals and stay clear of their path. It’s courteous and safe to make room for the cattle since there are so many visitors in this area.
Visit the halls of goats, sheep, chicken, rabbits, lamas, and horses. The Equine hall was closed when we were at the show since the judging was going on and the horses were being taken back and forth to the arena.
The last area we visited was the Main Hall. Don’t miss this area. We almost did, and am glad we didn’t. In this hall there are many displays and fun activates to do. There is a carousel for children an adults to ride. There is a butterfly house. There are vendors selling all things Pennsylvania. From Wine to treats for your dog this is the place to find PA Prefered goods. We purchased Buckwheat pancake mix, Cornbread mix, and a bottle of maple syrup from Burnt Cabin Mills, all three for $10.00. I find that a bargain, and glad to support Pennsylvania agriculture.
Be on the lookout for the free coloring books and activity sheets at vendors through the show. These are good for home or classroom use. There are exhibitors offering hands on activities for children with coloring sheets, and games to do on site.
This is a nice activity for children to participate in a scavenger hunt with these markers. Pick up the activity book to follow along the hunt. I found a stack of the books at the base of one of the markers.
If you plan to go this year or next I suggest visiting farmshow.state.pa.us before you leave your house. Pick up a FREE schedule when you get to the show.
Parking this year is $10.00. Admission to the show is FREE. We parked at HACC and there are plenty of FREE shuttle buses to take you back and forth to the Farm Show. Our bus driver was fantastic and gave us good tips of what to see and do once inside the building.
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