County fairs returning to Southwest Michigan

Kim LaSata
·2 min read

Festival season has arrived — and there’s no better way to spend a summer afternoon than at the county fair.

County fairs have brought communities together for family fun, food and to celebrate Michigan’s great agricultural heritage for generations. They provide young people, and even adults, with an excellent opportunity to learn new things.

Countless young farmers come out to display their livestock and to promote Michigan agriculture — it’s a great time to see the talent of area youth on display and help nurture the next generation of farmers.

Local fairs support our agricultural community, help connect residents with local farmers and encourage young adults to develop a love for raising animals and growing the food that feeds America. I am excited to join residents in welcoming back exhibitors as the fair season kicks off.

Many families are waiting for fairs to begin, but as a former 4-H member, I know that participants are looking forward to the event as much, if not more, than the attendees.

Below you’ll find information on fairs in the 21st District:

  • The Cass County Fair has already kicked off the fun! This year’s event runs through Saturday, Aug. 6. For more information, visit MyCassCountyFair.com.

  • The Berrien County Youth Fair will take place from Monday, Aug. 15 to Saturday, Aug. 20. For more information, visit BCYF.us.

  • Just a few short weeks after that, residents can head to Centreville for the St. Joseph County Grange Fair, which runs from Sunday, Sept. 18 to Saturday, Sept. 25. For the latest information, check out CentrevilleFair.com.

Our county fairs have plenty to offer everyone and provide a notable boost for the local economies that host them.

I hope everyone has an opportunity to stop in and enjoy their local fair. It’s a great chance to get outdoors, honor the hard work and dedication of area farmers, and to experience unique entertainment, food, and atmosphere. I encourage everyone to try and make it to one of these local events, it will certainly be worth it — and to all exhibitors: Good luck!

Sen. Kim LaSata, R-Niles, represents Berrien, Cass, and St. Joseph counties.

LaSata
LaSata

This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: Opinion