Ag Fair draws 1,500 attendees and 760 pound pumpkin

The Eastern Shore of Virginia (ESVA) Agricultural Fair concluded this past weekend with overwhelming success, drawing over 1,500 attendees and marking one of the most memorable events in the fair’s history. This year’s fair also saw record-breaking participation in various competitions, including the display of a remarkable 760-pound pumpkin. 

Event Highlights

The fair featured a diverse range of attractions and activities, including livestock exhibitions, agricultural displays, competitions, live entertainment, and educational workshops. Attendees enjoyed delicious fair food, shopped from local vendors, and participated in traditional fair competitions. 

Record-Breaking Competitions

This year’s competitions were a standout feature of the fair, attracting numerous participants and spectators. 

Highlights included: 

• Giant Pumpkin Contest: The competition reached new heights with an astounding 760-pound pumpkin, captivating fairgoers and showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our local growers. The pumpkin was grown by Doc Brown of Eastville. Percy Thomas took first in the Youth Division with a 210 pound pumpkin.
• The winner of the mens skillet throwing contest was the last person to enter at the end of the contest, Dave Higgins, with a 60 foot throw. Laura Hemphill won the women’s division with a 40 foot toss. Amio Festine won the 13 and under boys division and Emma Deitch took first in the 13 and under girls.
• The fair also featured contests for local farmers. Bobby Snyder won first place in the field corn contest and Nick Thomas won first in the soybean contest. Bailey Sturgis won first place in the youth soybean growing contest.
• The top prize in the photography contest was awarded to Mary Michael Lipford.
• Youth participants Brooke and Harper Bailey won the best overall entree in the baking contest with their apple pie.

Acknowledgements: This year’s success would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and partners. The Chamber would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to: 

• The Peninsula Tractor Organization: Their impressive display of vintage and modern tractors was a major attraction, showcasing the evolution of farming equipment and technology. 
• The Eastern Shore of Virginia Chamber of Commerce and AG Fair Committee: As the main organizer, their dedication and hard work were instrumental in bringing this event to life. 
• The Northampton Extension Office: Their support and collaboration provided valuable educational resources and workshops for attendees, emphasizing sustainable agriculture and community engagement. 
• The Pony Drill Team: Their captivating performances delighted audiences of all ages and highlighted the beauty and skill of equestrian sports. 

“We are thrilled with the turnout and positive feedback from this year’s fair,” said Anne Clark, Director of Marketing Events at the ESVA Chamber of Commerce. “The community’s enthusiasm and support were truly inspiring, and we are already looking forward to making next year’s event even bigger and better.”