What did the anxious pig say to the farmer? "You take me for grunted."
When is a farmer like a magician? When he turns his cows into a pasture.
All kidding aside, it's time for the 29th Annual Harford County Farm Fair this weekend at the Equestrian Center on Tollgate Road in Bel Air.
It's the highlight of the year for Harford's 4H participants. After a year of diligently and tenderly caring for their animals, the handlers will show off their pigs, goats, steers, heifers and other animals in hopes of being named grand champion.
With that title comes the hope of fetching a good price at the annual livestock auction, which is held Saturday evening. It's an exciting time for the 4H members, who are happy when their animal is sold but heartbroken at having to give him or her up to the buyer.
It's not just the livestock auction – the Farm Fair is about everything agricultural, one of Harford County's top industries. Animals of all varieties, from large to small, loud to quiet, are on display for visitors to see. Pet some of the rabbits, cows, pigs or goats. Check out the mamas and their babies lying around and watch as she cares for her young.
There are displays of homemade goods, too, from clothing and art to food and flowers. They're all beautiful examples of what Harford residents can do.
If animals aren't your thing, check out the Lucas Oil Truck and Tractor Pulls at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and the Antique Tractor Pull at 10 a.m. Sunday. Or take the children to visit the midway, full of games for them to enjoy.
The fair is open today (Friday) and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for children ages 5 to 11 and free for children 4 and younger. Military members with ID get in for $5.
It's easy to get to, with shuttles from Red Pump Elementary and Bel Air High schools and parking lots at Vale and Tollgate roads.
It's a wonderful experience for children and adults alike to see what Harford's farming community is all about. We encourage everyone to stop by one of the three days – we think you'll be glad you did.