Let's Go to the Farm Show

If you live in South Central Pennsylvania, I'm sure you've heard of the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Farming has always played a big role in Pennsylvania and I love that we have an event to help both farmers and non-farmers celebrate the good things that come from farming.

According to my research, William Penn arranged for gatherings where farmers could share knowledge and information all the way back in the 1600's. The PA Farm Show as we know it officially started in 1917. Pennsylvanians can proudly say our farm show is over 100 years old!

For this blog post I wanted to share how we celebrated with our own PA Farm Show themed party. I hope that you are inspired to learn more about supporting local farmers and the wonderful agricultural history of Pennsylvania (or whichever state you live in).

Menu Ideas:

These ideas are inspired by some of our favorite foods from the PA Farm Show.

Baked potatoes - loaded with your toppings of choice.

Fried Mozzarella Cubes - These are my absolute favorite! Crisp on the outside. Warm and gooey on the inside. Mmm!

Roast Beef Sandwiches or Burgers – Support a local beef operation.

Milkshakes - Of course we can't forget milkshakes! Chocolate, Vanilla, or Raspberry - take your pick.

To supplement the meal, have each guest bring something they've grown, preserved, or purchased at a local farmer's market.

Activities:

Have discussion questions placed at each table setting. Ask about where food comes from, favorite types of veggies, or favorite farm animals.

Watch a farming documentary or Farm Tuber (YouTube Farmer).

Play Pit, Farm-Opoly, Pig Mania, or other farm themed games.

One of my favorite things to see at the PA Farm Show is the butter sculpture. Last year at our farm show party, we made our own butter sculpture. It was a blast! Give your guests a stick of butter and let them go to town. Or simply make a butter sculpture in place of a centerpiece.

Decorations:

Decorations can be simple and easy. A red and white checked table cloth works wonders. Arrange a few fresh veggies on the table and add a mason jar with flowers. I would also recommend playing some type of country or bluegrass music in the background for added ambiance. Bonus points if you have your guests wear flannel, boots, or overalls (and no, not all farmers dress like this. It's just for fun!).

I hope this post inspires you to learn more about farming and to spend time with friends and family enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Thanks for reading,

Abby