FRANKFORT, Ky. — Visitors to the 108th Kentucky State Fair will notice a new appearance to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s exhibits in the Kentucky Exposition Center’s West Wing and an interactive computer display in the South Wing.

“The Kentucky State Fair gives the Kentucky Department of Agriculture an opportunity to show the public some of the things we do for every Kentuckian every day,” Agriculture Commissioner James Comer said. “I hope all Kentuckians will come out Aug. 16-26 and enjoy some farm-fresh food from our Kentucky Proud producers.”

The South Wing will feature an area where Commissioner Comer, as his schedule permits, will greet fairgoers and answer questions about agriculture in the Commonwealth. This is his first state fair since he was elected agriculture commissioner last November.

The new KDA display in the West Wing looks like the side of a barn with a fence around it. Kentucky Proud vendors will give product demonstrations and offer samples of their foods.

In the South Wing, laptop computers will be set up to quiz fairgoers on agriculture-related questions. Each day, representatives from a different agritourism venue will meet the public to promote their farm or bed and breakfast.

Kentucky commodity organizations will sell representative samples of their products at The Great Kentucky Cook Out Tent. The Kentucky Proud farmers’ market will be back at its usual location outside the corner of the West Hall.

Staff from the Department’s Division of Show and Fair Promotion will help work the livestock shows at the fair. Department employees will work the skillathons and judging contests. Staff from the Office of the State Veterinarian will check health papers for every animal that’s brought to the fair.

Exhibitors who show livestock born and raised in Kentucky will be eligible for additional premiums through the Kentucky Proud Livestock Tag Program. Kentucky Proud champions and reserve champions will be named in beef, dairy, goats, sheep, and swine.

Press release courtesy of Kentucky Department of Agriculture.