Well, we did it. We went to the Farm Show. It was a harried experience; at times marred with stress and annoyance, and at times filled with fun and good eats.
While others shelled out $10 to park in some far away lot and then ride the school bus shuttle to the Expo Center, we parked just up the street at the Budget Bakery Holsum. The Boy Scouts were running a fundraiser there at just $7 to park. Zach being an Eagle Scout, we had to park there. We know where our priorities lie. I don't know if this was just a weekend thing--I wouldn't park there unless you see proper signage and the little scouts directing you in. Otherwise, you might return to a towed vehicle.
The Farm Show Building was...packed. I guess that was to be expected. It was Sunday of the opening weekend. Any poor soul who has zero time Monday thru Friday (myself included) is forced to go during those coveted workweek margins known as weekends. At times, I felt a little bit like the cattle, crammed into the hallways and stairwells, moving one inch at a time. Thank goodness there wasn't a fire. It was better when you made it to wider thoroughfares. You could actually dodge those sprawling families with strollers the size of small SUVs.
In an attempt to meet with our friends, we got very very lost. Zach managed to step in animal crap within the first 10 minutes. It did not start out on a high note. We finally gave in and dropped $3.00 for a program with a map. Admittance is free, but the little costs here and there can add up.
After meeting up with the Knaub's, we went straight to the Food Court. It's amazing how good food (and plenty of it) can turn things around. There's no conceivable way to try everything there in one visit. Together, our combined menu consisted of pulled pork barbecue with cole slaw, chicken nuggets, a tilapia sandwich, a baked potato, deep fried vegetables, apple cider, milk shakes (one vanilla, one chocolate), maple ice cream and honey-drizzled waffles. We ate well. Be prepared for long lines, especially for Farm Show favorites like the milkshakes. As for eating, find a spot at one of the communal tables. I left the Food Court feeling full and overwhelmed. There was so much more I wanted to try, but my stomach said "no."
With a renewed pep in my step, we then explored the sites.
Tractors (new and antique), exhibits, vendors hocking their wares and a stop by the visiting wineries for some wine tasting. I particularly enjoyed some of the wines from Adams County Winery, located just outside of Gettysburg.
And then the animals! You can get up close and personal, but watch your step. Cows, goats, alpacas, rabbits, chickens and other birds.
The air has a certain...aroma, but that's why it's called the Farm Show. You get used to it. My favorite animals by far were the rabbits. They even had some out for petting.
The day started out with some challenges, but after we found our friends and the food, everything turned around. I would do it all over again and I plan to next year. Should you decide to go, here are some things to consider:
-Dress comfortably and in layers. Temperatures can fluctuate from room to arena. They have a coat check-in as well. This is not a fashion show; it's the Farm Show. You might step in something unpleasant. Don't dress up; dress down instead.
-To avoid crowds, go to the Farm Show sometime during the workweek (if you can).
-Come equipped with lots of patience, especially if you're braving big crowds.
-For more information, check out the Farm Show website: www.farmshow.state.pa.us
Don't forget, the Farm Show ends this Saturday, January 16th. You don't want to miss it!
I enjoyed this article, very insightful! Thanks! Never been to the farm show, although, I am from York. Did not know what it was really about. This summed it up.