Outside of a few events in Atlanta, there are few bigger events in the state than the Georgia National Fair, which kicked off over the weekend in Perry. This year’s fair is the 30th edition of the combination carnival, concert series and agricultural showcase. Approximately 500,000 people will pass through the gates at the fairgrounds this year to enjoy the festivities.
For music lovers, there are concerts every night, featuring the Oak Ridge Boys, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic and Confederate Railroad among others. For the foodies, there’s much more than the meat that is still walking around. Georgia Grown is a major sponsor of the fair and their location can’t be missed right under the clock tower near the entrance. They have an events stage, featuring a number of chef demonstrations every day. They also have an interactive farm exhibit designed for children 2-12 to follow their food from farm to fork.
Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger also got a booth this year, featuring the latest ballot system his office is rolling out. “It was wonderful to be at the opening night of the Georgia National Fair in Perry. We can’t wait to meet with voters to discuss our new paper based ballot system,” said Raffensperger. “Be sure to stop by our booth in the Georgia Grown building to cast your ballot.”
Besides all the fun rides and fair food, there’s one very serious bit of business at the fair – the Livestock Legislative Showdown. The showdown is a highly competitive event between the senate and house chambers at the capitol to determine which chamber best handles livestock in a showmanship ring. The legislators are partnered with 4-H or Future Farmers of America students who coach them on proper handling and ring etiquette.
This year’s winner was Representative Bonnie Rich (R-97 Suwanee). As a lawyer and law professor in her career until now, livestock showcases are something Rich does not have much practice in but she credited her student coach with her success.
“This year’s Livestock Showdown provided a unique and exciting experience that allowed me learn from my FFA student coach, her parents and her agriculture teacher about the importance of livestock and agriculture to many families in our state. FFA and 4-H programs provide our students with tools, education and mentorship that will assist students in whatever career or vocation they choose, whether it be in agriculture or otherwise,” said Rep. Rich. “I want to give a special thank you to my FFA student coach, Colleen Barber, who prepared me for this competition. Not only did the House beat the Senate in the overall challenge, but I was also named the Legislator Champion thanks to my terrific student coach.”
The fair does feature livestock professionals other than moonlighting legislators. Everything from cows and goats to rabbits and llamas are on display and in show to find the best – and sometimes the plumpest. Be sure to check the livestock schedule in case you have your heart set on seeing goats but it happens to be a hog day.
To plan your visit, for everything from the livestock series to the concerts, https://www.georgianationalfair.com/
