Fall is Fair Season at Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance
As strong supporters of agriculture in Mississippi, Mississippi Farm Bureau always has a strong presence at Mississippi’s fairs. The largest is the 2019 Mississippi State Fair which takes place at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson. Fairgoers can enjoy the fun over two full weeks from Wednesday, October 2 to Wednesday, October 14. An average of 750,000 attend annually. Other fairs include the South Mississippi Fair in Laurel and the Mid-South Fair in Southhaven. Additionally, smaller fairs dot the state throughout the fall season.
Many such fairs feature roller coasters and other exciting thrill rides, decadent food options, and a host of carnival games. But behind all those bright lights, loudspeakers, and giant stuffed animals is a literal cornucopia of agricultural advocacy, showcases, and competitions.
The Fair Tradition in Mississippi
The contemporary fair is an evolution of the traditional “county fairs” held in the American South throughout the 1800s—themselves a product of the “agricultural shows” popularized throughout Great Britain in the 1700s. According to Wikipedia, “The first known agricultural show was held by Salford Agricultural Society, Lancashire, in 1768.”
Many of the historical fair activities are still in practice at today’s events. One of the main features is the livestock show. Judges evaluate assorted farm animals according to their size, fitness, and other factors. Vegetables, recipes, and other rural delights also compete for attention in various contests. Likewise, food from around the state is available for sampling, often courtesy of ag- or farmer-focused advocacy groups much like the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.
At the fair, you can also attend a good old fashioned rodeo, perhaps catch a music concert, maybe find a small circus tent, petting zoo—or any number of fun and unique activities.
Where Can I Find More Agritourism in Mississippi?
From working farms to “pick your own” berries, from corn mazes to “cut your own” Christmas trees—there’s a wealth of “agritainment” in Mississippi.
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce has a page of information on Mississippi Agritourism. The Mississippi Department of Tourism even created a ”Mississippi Agribusiness Trail” featuring nearly 100 ag-focused items of interest that you can visit throughout the state.
Go with the Home Team
Since 1947, Farm Bureau Insurance has been helping both rural and urban Mississippians protect what they love and depend on. Our automobile insurance and homeowner policies offer comprehensive coverage at competitive rates, all with the high level of friendly, dedicated, local claims service you’ve come to expect from Farm Bureau.
Best of all, our network of Mississippi Farm Bureau Insurance Agents are always nearby to provide knowledgeable, friendly service. Find an Agent in your area today.