Column: There's Magic in the Fair

Originally published in the Sept. 18, 2013, issue

 

By Randy Moore

 

Moore

Welcome to the 24th annual state-sponsored Georgia National Fair, Oct. 3 through 13: “There’s Magic in the Fair!”

 

The fair highlights some of Georgia’s greatest assets: our youth and agriculture. During the 11-day event, you will experience every facet of the fair; horse and livestock shows, youth competitions, Georgia Living exhibits and contests, food, rides, circus, vendors, family entertainment, concerts and nightly fireworks.

 

The new Georgia Grown building highlights Georgia’s diverse agricultural industry by showcasing its products, services and education. Fairgoers will learn why agriculture is the state’s No. 1 industry. The Georgia Grown Pavilion sells unique Georgia-made products such as jams and jellies, nuts, baked goods, sauces and relishes.

 

The third annual Legislative Livestock Showdown, Oct. 5, pairs Georgia House and Senate legislators with an experienced 4-H or FFA livestock show participant as their "teacher."  Dressed in their special showmanship shirts, the legislators go through the process of preparing an animal for the show ring. In the showmanship class, the judging process focuses on how they handle the heifer. The first-place winner receives 10 points; the 10th place winner, one point. Scores are tallied and the winning team will be presented with the Showdown Trophy. The House has won the trophy the past two years.

 

Reaves Arena concerts include Hunter Hayes with Love and Theft, Oct. 5; Justin Moore and Thompson Square, Oct. 12. All seats are reserved and on sale at www.georgianationalfair.com.

 

The Georgia National Fair is special and unique. It’s the perfect time and place for families and friends to gather and have fun. We encourage you to visit the many educational aspects of the fair. We also encourage you to participate in the fair. It’s a sense of great pride to win a blue ribbon at the Georgia National Fair.

 

The Georgia Agricultural Exposition Authority and staff hope you enjoy everything the fair has to offer. From Georgia’s outstanding youth and top livestock to the lights and sounds of the entertainment and rides, the Georgia National Fair is magical!

 

The Georgia National Fair has won many awards and honors, but nothing gives us more pleasure than knowing you and your family and friends are having a great time. The staff is here to assist you in any manner. We look forward to seeing you in Perry!

 

Randy Moore is the executive director of the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter and the Georgia National Fair in Perry, Ga.