by Katie Martin, Smith County Extension Agent
“The Fair on the River” is coming up July 1- July 6 on the grounds surrounding the Smith County Ag Center. Whether you are young or just young at heart, there is something for you at the Smith County Fair. From the carnival rides to the fair food and from the demolition derby to the livestock shows, there will be plenty to see and do.
One of the highlights of any county fair is the agriculture exhibits. While our fair is on the early side for many of our home gardens, if you do have fruits, vegetables, or crops to bring, we would love to display them. Whether you grow a thousand acres of crops or have one fruit tree, bring your entries from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Monday, July 1st for some friendly competition and a chance to win a blue ribbon and prize money.
Check the fair book or smithcountyfairtn.com for a complete list of eligible items to enter. Also, do not forget we have a Junior Agriculture Show for ages 6-19. Best of Show in the Junior Show wins the $75 David Carr Memorial award given by Tractor Supply Company in memory of the former Gordonsville FFA advisor.
Livestock shows are a longstanding tradition at fairs across the nation, and ours is no exception. This year’s livestock shows include the draft horse and mule show and beef, poultry, hog, goat, and sheep shows.
It’s impossible to cover every event in one article, so I encourage you to stop by the University of Tennessee Extension office at 67 Cookeville Highway, Suite 102, and pick up a copy of this year’s fair program if you haven’t already. The fair will be fun for all, so bring your family and friends and enjoy all the great activities at this year’s Fair on the River!
For more information about the Smith County Fair or any agriculture-related topics, contact the UT Extension office at 615-735-2900.
