SAVOR SUMMER: SHOP, DINE & EXPLORE PAGE 23 theconnectionsnj.com t was 1978 when the famous Paul Harvey delivered his speech to the FFA, “So God Made a Farmer.” Search for “American Rhetoric: Paul Harvey-So God Made A Farmer FFA Speech” to check it out. It describes the dedication of our farmers-then and now. FFA stands for Future Farmers of America (not to be confused with the FAA or Federal Aviation Administration, which regulates our hot air balloons). This youth group is molding not just our future farmers but future leaders through agriculture education in our local high schools. Check out how the local programs come together in the FFA building. View beautiful landscape exhibits and learn more about the program and their yearly efforts in the classroom. Also visit the 4-H exhibits and attend one of numerous competitions and presentations throughout the week. Help with the 4-H and FFA fundraising efforts by supporting sales of plants, ice cream sandwiches and milk shakes, produce and activities. The Fair is a place where local farmers display antique tractors, animals, hay and more. Locals enjoy participating in the various tractor and truck pulls for spectator viewing. Other main arena events include Bullride Mania Rodeo, Demolition Derbies, and the Action Sports Show featuring BMX, FMX, and MC stunts showcasing some of the most skilled riders in the world! (Additional tickets may be required) Farmers and gardeners can submit their fruits and vegetables, herbs, flowers and more in the Home and Garden building. Many also display canning, handwork, arts and crafts. The Hot Air Balloon Festival has been a favorite addition since 2001. Watch balloon launches, take a tethered ride or full flight and appreciate the beauty of Warren County’s stunning farmland from the air. Access to view the balloons is included in the low Fair admission price: $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, and free parking, making it one of the most affordable events around. The Traditional Arts Expo and Quilt Display will have a red, white and blue theme. Celebrate this iconic American folk-art tradition in the Expo building where over one hundred quilts will be on display. Visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite and enter a raffle to win one of the beautiful quilts. The organizers of the expo will have programs for youth, that include embroidery, cross stitch, and quilting blocks that will make their way into a quilt to be displayed in 2027. The Kids’ Corral is chock-full of fun and is free for all fairgoers! Contests, entertainment, education, crafts, and more await your kids! There is plenty more! Be sure to check out the website at warrencountyfarmersfair.org. The Warren County Farmers’ Fair, featuring the Hot Air Balloon Festival, is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. VisitNJ.org. Funding provided by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and Warren County Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a Division of the Department of Land Preservation, with support from the Warren County Board of County Commissioners. COMMENDS Warren County Farmers’ Fair & Hot Air Balloon Festival Celebrating the American Farmer and Family Traditions since 1937 CONNECTION warrencountyfarmersfair.org I
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